India-Canada relations have deteriorated dramatically in recent times, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau bearing the brunt of the blame. The core of this diplomatic fallout revolves around Trudeau’s accusation that Indian agents were involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a known extremist declared a terrorist by India. While this incident has become a flashpoint, it highlights Canada’s long-standing protection of individuals involved in anti-Indian activities, often under the guise of free speech.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s history exemplifies Canada’s lenient approach toward extremists. Since 1997, Nijjar sought Canadian citizenship based on forged documents, and after several rejections, he finally received it in 2007. His association with terrorism is undeniable. India issued an Interpol red notice against him, placing him on the no-fly list and freezing his Canadian bank accounts. His actions went beyond political dissent; he celebrated the assassinations of prominent Indian figures, including former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and military officials. His links to violent separatist movements and connections to Pakistan, where he was photographed holding an AK-47, only solidified his terrorist credentials.

For years, India repeatedly urged Canada to control the activities of extremists like Nijjar who pose a direct threat to its national security. These individuals have actively campaigned for a separate Sikh state carved out of India’s Punjab region, organizing so-called referendums on Canadian soil. Such actions go beyond free speech-they advocate violence, issue death threats against Indian officials, and incite hatred within India’s diaspora. Yet, Canada’s refusal to act has created fertile ground for extremism to flourish.

In September 2023, Trudeau shocked the international community by accusing India of orchestrating Nijjar’s killing on Canadian soil. However, Trudeau’s claims were based solely on “intelligence”........

© Blitz