India is presently engaged in collaborative efforts with Canada concerning the investigation into the assassination of Khalistani militant Hardeep Singh Nijjar, as outlined by Jody Thomas, Canada's former national security advisor.
During an interview with CTV on Friday, Thomas highlighted that India's active involvement in the ongoing inquiry into Nijjar's murder in British Columbia last June marks a significant "development" in the diplomatic interaction between the two nations following a period of strained relations.
Contrary to earlier assertions of India's lack of cooperation with Canada, Thomas remarked, "I wouldn't characterize them as uncooperative." She further indicated that recent discussions with her Indian counterpart had yielded positive outcomes.
Additionally, Thomas underscored that the indictment of Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta by the United States for his alleged involvement in a plot to assassinate Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US had contributed to the improved bilateral dynamics.
The diplomatic rift between India and Canada intensified when Trudeau implied the existence of "credible allegations" implicating Indian government operatives in Nijjar's assassination. India vehemently refuted these allegations as "baseless", while maintaining that Canada had not provided any substantiating evidence or information.
In response to Trudeau's remarks, India requested Canada to scale down its diplomatic presence, prompting Ottawa to recall 41 diplomats from India in September. The friction between the two countries had ramifications on discussions regarding a potential free-trade agreement.
Thomas emphasized, "Canada's engagement in the Indo-Pacific region hinges on fostering a robust relationship with India... And I believe we are making strides towards that goal."
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