A recent Canadian commission report has stated that there is “no definitive link” proving foreign state involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, contradicting earlier claims made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The report, titled Public Inquiry Into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions, weakens Trudeau’s allegations that Indian agents were responsible for Nijjar’s murder in British Columbia in June 2023.
The report, authored by Commissioner Marie-Josee Hogue, highlighted the use of disinformation as a tool to retaliate against decisions that do not align with a foreign state’s interests. It also mentioned that India may have been involved in a disinformation campaign following Trudeau’s allegations but did not provide any concrete proof of state-sponsored involvement in Nijjar’s assassination.
The 123-page report also referred to Canada’s decision to expel six Indian diplomats in October 2024, citing a “targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.” In response, India expelled six Canadian diplomats and withdrew its high commissioner, further straining diplomatic ties between the two nations.
India has consistently rejected Canada’s accusations as baseless and politically motivated. New Delhi has instead accused Canada of interfering in its internal affairs and turning a blind eye to pro-Khalistan groups operating within its borders. The Khalistan movement, which seeks an independent Sikh state, is banned in India but has significant support among the Sikh diaspora, particularly in Canada.
Following the release of the report, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly refuted any insinuations against it, reiterating that Canada has been the one meddling in India’s internal matters. The latest developments further highlight the deepening diplomatic rift between the two nations, with no immediate resolution in sight.
