Tensions between India and Canada rose sharply after the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023 outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia. Nijjar, an outspoken advocate for Khalistan—an independent Sikh state in India’s Punjab—was viewed as a “terrorist” by Indian authorities due to his pro-separatist activism. Following his murder, Canada expelled Indian diplomats, alleging their involvement in the killing. India responded by expelling Canadian diplomats, further straining diplomatic ties.
Canada Accuses Indian Minister Amit Shah of Orchestrating Plot Against Sikh Separatists
In October 2024, Canada accused Amit Shah, India’s Minister of Home Affairs, of involvement in plots targeting Sikh separatists in Canada, escalating tensions between India and Canada. The Indian government dismissed the accusations but has yet to formally respond. Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister David Morrison confirmed to a U.S. newspaper that Shah was implicated, though he provided no additional evidence. The Washington Post initially reported the accusations, suggesting Shah led a campaign of intimidation against Sikh separatists in Canada. A source revealed that Canada had informed India of Shah’s alleged role as early as October 2023.
Sikh Diaspora in Canada
Canada has one of the largest Sikh populations outside India, with over 770,000 Sikhs according to the 2021 census. Well-integrated into Canadian society, Canadian Sikhs contribute significantly across various sectors, including business, politics, and the arts. They maintain strong cultural ties through Sikhism and Punjabi traditions, with numerous gurdwaras and vibrant celebrations, like Vaisakhi, nationwide.
India’s Alleged Targeting of Sikh Separatists Abroad
The Canadian case is not the only instance of India allegedly targeting Sikh separatists overseas. U.S. authorities have charged former Indian intelligence officer Vikash Yadav with allegedly directing a foiled plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a U.S.-Canadian citizen critical of India, in New York City. Following this, the FBI issued a warning against retaliatory acts targeting U.S. residents. In November 2023, India announced a formal investigation into these U.S. allegations but has publicly addressed the matter minimally. Such accusations have complicated India’s diplomatic relations with both Washington and Ottawa, despite India being regarded by the West as a strategic counterbalance to China.
