Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's recent accusations against India regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar might be an attempt to shift focus away from growing concerns over Chinese interference in Canadian politics. Indian officials believe that Trudeau’s heightened tensions with India are linked to his upcoming appearance before a commission investigating China's influence in Ottawa.
Sources indicate that Trudeau’s latest accusations came just before officials from his office are due to testify at the Foreign Interference Commission. This commission is looking into claims that his government has not done enough to curb China's increasing sway over Canadian affairs. According to insiders, the timing suggests that the accusations against India could be an effort to divert attention from this issue by portraying India as meddling in Canada's internal matters.
Despite Trudeau's strong claims, Indian officials note that the Canadian government, including its security agencies, has not presented any concrete evidence to back up their allegations. One official remarked, “Insinuations and shows of indignation cannot replace real evidence,” dismissing the idea that substantial proof had been provided to India.
In contrast, India has reportedly presented undeniable evidence linking Nijjar and his supporters to terrorist activities, supplying detailed information on his involvement in criminal activities. The Indian government has long voiced concerns about Canada being a base for such individuals, but officials claim the Trudeau administration has been reluctant to act, possibly due to fears of alienating key voter groups, especially as Trudeau's popularity declines ahead of elections.
Sources within India's security establishment emphasized that while criminal networks are thriving, the Canadian government seems to downplay these issues. They added, "Presenting criminal rivalries as a foreign conspiracy may serve political interests, but it’s far from effective statecraft."
Despite the ongoing tensions, officials stressed that India’s relationship with Canada extends beyond the current discord, stating, "Our bilateral ties are multi-faceted and will endure despite the actions of a particular leadership."
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