Ottawa: A prominent Canadian newspaper has published fresh allegations linking an Indian intelligence official to the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, casting a shadow over ongoing efforts by New Delhi and Ottawa to repair strained ties.
The report by The Globe and Mail appeared on the same day Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, where both leaders were attempting to chart a renewed path for bilateral relations.
Allegations Detailed in Report
Citing unnamed national security and law enforcement sources, the newspaper claimed that a member of India’s foreign mission in Vancouver may have provided intelligence that contributed to Nijjar’s fatal shooting in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023.
According to the report, the individual—described as a visa officer—allegedly operated under diplomatic cover on behalf of India’s external intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). The article further suggested that the officer collected information on Nijjar by interacting with members of the Indian diaspora in Canada.
The report also mentioned a senior diplomat, identified only as Manish, who was serving as Consul-General in Vancouver at the time and was allegedly connected to the matter.
Indian authorities have not issued an official response to the claims.
Background: A Diplomatic Flashpoint
Nijjar, an advocate of the Khalistan movement seeking a separate Sikh homeland, was shot dead outside the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in June 2023. His killing triggered a diplomatic standoff after then Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that Canadian agencies were examining credible allegations of potential Indian involvement.
India strongly rejected those accusations at the time, calling them baseless. The dispute led to reciprocal expulsions of diplomats and a sharp downturn in bilateral engagement.
Canadian authorities have since charged four Indian nationals in connection with the murder. Investigations into possible foreign links remain ongoing.
Timing Raises Diplomatic Stakes
The publication of the report coincided with high-level discussions in New Delhi, where Carney and Modi focused on rebuilding trust and expanding cooperation in trade, energy and critical technologies. Both sides have publicly expressed interest in restoring normalcy and increasing economic exchanges.
However, the renewed allegations could complicate diplomatic efforts just as momentum appeared to be building toward a reset.
Officials in both countries have yet to comment on whether the claims will influence ongoing talks. Observers note that while economic cooperation remains a priority, unresolved security concerns continue to hover over the relationship.
Further developments are expected as authorities respond to the latest disclosures.
