Link to article: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/hardeep-singh-nijjar-gambit-backfires-on-justin-trudeau/articleshow/103844041.cms
Among the Khalistan movement, a Canadian citizen and pro-Khalistan Sikh separatist leader was murdered. Hardeep Singh Nijjar was murdered in British Columbia and his murder remains unsolved. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has accused India and New Delhi of helping in the assassination of the separatist. India’s media has taken offense to this and claims this accusation is nothing more than baseless. They are painting Nijjar as a terrorist and are spreading the message that there is no evidence of any conspiring on India’s behalf. Even Canada’s National Post has gone on to say, “If it turns out that Trudeau dropped this metaphorical bomb without having all his ducks in order, it will be a huge scandal, with massive domestic and geopolitical ramifications.” Canada and India are in direct conflict and this has potential to increase tensions between the countries.
Trudeau’s allegations provide a direct threat to New Delhi. Given Nijjar was a Canadian citizen, they will not take this matter lightly if they have reasonable suspicion that India was connected to the murder. It is also evident that India views Nijjar and other Khalistan supporters as terrorists and threats. India and their media is not hiding this and despite this distaste towards Nijjar, are denying and involvement. This disagreement is just beginning and has potential to become a major issue. Canada could pursue to get something from India in return for this, also potentially involving countries. Globally, this is a bad look for India, painting them as scared. It conveys a sense of desperation to silence those opposed to India’s government. This certainly creates tension between the two countries, which will continue to build until a side caves or an agreement can be made.
This conflict will evolve into a matter regarding international law, as the murder was committed on foreign ground. These circumstances will lead to a complicated resolution, or perhaps no resolution. Trudeau’s accusation also leads to a shift in the outward appearance of India, affecting how other states will view their government. Have Canada feel the need to obtain something from India in return for potentially causing this issue, other countries could get involved regarding what should be awarded. Diplomatic measures may very well need to be taken, if not, at least talks between the governing heads.