Overview of Allegations Against Modi

In a stunning development, Canadian security agencies are reporting strong suspicions that Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India was aware of plots targeting Sikh separatists in Canada, particularly the assassination of the prominent Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. This shocking allegation stems from insights provided by a senior national-security official, who previously assessed New Delhi's foreign-interference operations within Canadian borders.

Involvement of Indian Officials

According to this official, both Canadian and American intelligence agencies have linked these violent plots to India's Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah. Key figures involved also include Modi's trusted National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, and External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. While definitive proof of Modi’s involvement remains elusive, the consensus is that it would be highly improbable for these senior officials to orchestrate high-stakes operations without Modi’s knowledge.

Trudeau's Stance and Public Safety Concerns

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has publicly stated that discussions with Indian officials regarding their interference activities, especially targeting supporters of the pro-Khalistan movement, have been ongoing. His insistence on prioritizing the safety of Canadians underscores the seriousness of these allegations.

Significant Meeting at G20 Summit

A significant moment arose during the G20 summit in Brazil when U.S. President Joe Biden facilitated a meeting between Trudeau and Modi; however, details of their conversation remain undisclosed, leaving many to speculate about the nature of their discussions amidst these grave accusations.

Clarifications from the Privy Council Office

The public statement from the Privy Council Office notably clarified that, although the RCMP has indicated that elements of the Indian government might be responsible for serious criminal activities within Canada, no direct allegations have been made against the Indian leadership, including Modi and his cabinet.

Connections to Recent Sikh Activist Killings

Crucially, Trudeau’s national-security adviser, Nathalie Drouin, alongside Global Affairs Deputy Minister David Morrison, previously informed The Washington Post of Shah's possible connections to Nijjar's gangland murder. Alarmingly, the report also linked India to the recent slaying of another Sikh activist, Sukhdool Singh Gill, in Winnipeg—an incident which occurred just after Trudeau announced credible evidence linking India to Nijjar's assassination.

RCMP Findings and Responses

RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme revealed on October 14 that investigations point towards India's involvement in multiple killings, confirmed in the case of Nijjar, with a total of eight individuals charged with murder and another 22 facing extortion charges. Four Indian nationals have been specifically implicated in Nijjar's killing outside a Sikh temple.

Diplomatic Crisis and Expulsions

In retaliation to these allegations, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, including the High Commissioner, further straining relations between the two nations. This diplomatic crisis intensified when the RCMP expressed urgent concerns in August about the safety of 13 Canadians, suggesting that India’s extensive foreign-interference campaigns could not be curbed simply by law enforcement measures.

Failed Attempts at Dialogue

Amidst these mounting tensions, Drouin highlighted a failed attempt to convene with Indian officials in New Delhi under the pretext of an administrative obstacle, which raises questions about India's willingness to engage with Canada on these critical matters. A meeting finally took place on October 12 in Singapore, where Canadian officials presented evidence to Doval. Drouin later testified that all requests for resolution were dismissed, prompting Canada to officially expel six Indian diplomats on Thanksgiving Day, bringing India to retaliate with a similar expulsion of Canadian diplomats.

Implications for International Relations

With diplomatic relations at a historic low, the Canadian government is grappling with maintaining its national security while navigating complex international pressures. Canadians and global observers alike are left questioning the implications of these revelations on international relations and the safety of individuals advocating for minority rights. Will Canada's push for accountability lead to significant changes in foreign relations with India? Only time will tell!