India Challenges Canada Over Claims of Targeting Sikh Activists

India firmly disputes Canada's claims against Home Minister Amit Shah

India has strongly contested the accusations by Canada, which suggest that Amit Shah, the influential Indian Home Minister, orchestrated actions against Sikh activists on Canadian territory. India described these claims as both 'absurd' and 'baseless.'

Tensions Escalate Between India and Canada

The diplomatic ties between the two nations have further deteriorated following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's assertion that credible evidence implicated the Indian government in the killing of a Sikh activist in Canada. India has categorically denied these allegations.

New Delhi has long been wary of Sikh separatist movements and accuses Canada of allowing supporters of the Khalistan movement, which seeks an independent Sikh state, to operate freely. This has added strain to the already tense relations.

In a tit-for-tat move last month, each country expelled the other's leading diplomat, further souring interactions.

India's Strong Reaction

Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson for India's foreign ministry, conveyed India's robust objection to the statements tying Shah to the allegations, calling them entirely unfounded. He disclosed that a formal protest note was submitted to the Canadian diplomatic mission.

"Such reckless actions will undeniably impact bilateral relations," Jaiswal warned.

Canada's Position

Canada's Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, David Morrison, informed the national security committee that the allegations were verified and first reported by a major outlet. However, he abstained from detailing the evidence proving Shah's involvement.

Canadian officials maintain they have shared evidence with India, though Indian authorities insist they have not seen any concrete proof and refer to the accusations as preposterous.

Background on the Accused and the Accuser

The Sikh activist in question, previously outlawed in India for his involvement in the Khalistan movement, had lived in Canada for nearly thirty years. Designated as a terrorist by India, he was wanted for his alleged involvement in an attack on a Hindu priest.