Three Indian nationals have been arrested and charged in connection with the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last June, a case that ignited a diplomatic dispute between Canada and India.
Nijjar, 45, was fatally shot by masked gunmen in a busy car park in a Vancouver suburb, prompting allegations from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that India’s government may have been involved. These accusations were vehemently denied by Delhi.
The three suspects, identified as Karan Brar, 22, Kamal Preet Singh, 22, and Karan Preet Singh, 28, were apprehended in Edmonton, Alberta, where they had been residing. They face charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, according to court records.
Police disclosed that all three individuals had been living in Canada for three to five years. The investigation is ongoing, with particular focus on potential connections to the government of India. Assistant Commissioner David Teboul emphasised that there may be additional arrests or charges as the inquiry progresses.
Nijjar was known as a Sikh separatist leader advocating for Khalistan, an independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region. His assassination at the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey prompted shock and outrage within the Sikh community.
Canadian intelligence services had reportedly warned Nijjar that he was on a “hit list” and faced threats on his life.
Despite allegations labelling him a terrorist, Nijjar’s supporters contend that he was targeted due to his activism.
The investigation progress has been welcomed by members of the Sikh community, although concerns about public safety and tensions linger.
Trudeau’s assertion of potential Indian state involvement in Nijjar’s killing stirred controversy, leading to diplomatic friction between the two nations.
India urged Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence in response to the allegations, while Trudeau faced pressure to substantiate his claims.
As the case unfolds, it remains a focal point in the complex relationship between Canada and India, with implications for diplomatic ties and cross-border cooperation.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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