Australia 'Concerned' About Canadian PM's Claim Regarding Nijjar Controversy

NEW DELHI: The Australian government has voiced its apprehension regarding Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's statements suggesting the possible involvement of Indian agents in the assassination of pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong expressed her concerns, stating, "These are concerning reports. I note that investigations are still underway." Wong emphasized that the Australian government is closely monitoring the situation, coordinating its efforts with partner nations, and will continue to do so.

India has taken significant action in response to these allegations. On Tuesday, September 19, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) revealed that India had expelled a high-ranking Canadian diplomat from the country. The high commissioner of Canada to India was summoned and informed about the Indian government's decision to expel the senior Canadian diplomat residing in India. This diplomat has been given a five-day notice to leave India.

The MEA explained that this decision reflects the Indian government's growing concerns about Canadian diplomats' interference in internal Indian affairs and their alleged involvement in activities against India's interests.

It is noteworthy that Canada had previously expelled an Indian diplomat from the country. This action came after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly mentioned the ongoing investigation into alleged connections between Indian government agents and the assassination of Khalistani separatist activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who held Canadian citizenship. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly identified the expelled Indian diplomat as the head of Indian intelligence in Canada.

Joly emphasized the potential implications of these allegations, stating, "If proven true, this would be a great violation of our sovereignty and of the most basic rule of how countries deal with each other," as reported by AP.

The situation continues to evolve, with investigations ongoing, and diplomatic tensions remain high between the two nations.

Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the House of Commons to share his concerns regarding the ongoing investigation into the assassination of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Trudeau stated, "Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar."

The Canadian Prime Minister went on to emphasize the gravity of these concerns, revealing that Canada had formally communicated its deep apprehensions to top intelligence and security officials within the Indian government. Additionally, Trudeau took the opportunity to personally and directly convey these concerns to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 meeting, leaving no room for ambiguity.

The investigation continues, and the allegations remain a point of diplomatic tension between Canada and India.

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