Canadian authorities have made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the shooting death of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The first arrests were made in Edmonton, Alberta, where three members of the alleged hit squad were apprehended. These individuals, identified as Karan Brar, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh, are Indian citizens living in Canada on non-permanent resident status.
The murder of Nijjar outside a gurdwara in British Columbia last year shocked the community, and the arrests have brought some closure to the case. However, the investigation is ongoing, with authorities looking into allegations that the Indian government orchestrated the killing. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously mentioned pursuing credible allegations linking the Indian government to the attack.
The arrests have not only had legal implications but also diplomatic repercussions. Trudeau's statements regarding the possible involvement of Indian government agents strained relations between Ottawa and New Delhi. India reacted strongly, leading to the expulsion of diplomats and suspension of trade talks between the two countries.
The plot thickens as reports suggest a broader campaign of repression and harassment by India's intelligence agency, RAW, against critics of the Modi government in the Indian diaspora. This includes a foiled assassination attempt on U.S. soil against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an associate of Nijjar. U.S. intelligence agencies believe the plot was approved by Samant Goel, then the head of RAW.
Despite the arrests, the investigation is far from over. Authorities have not ruled out additional arrests, as security footage revealed the involvement of at least six individuals and two vehicles in Nijjar's killing. The case has required collaboration with international counterparts, including the United States, though cooperation with Indian authorities has been challenging.
The incident has also raised concerns about foreign interference in Canada, with a preliminary report of a public inquiry naming India as one of several countries attempting to meddle in Canadian affairs. Canadian officials have denied allegations of harboring Sikh extremists, emphasizing their commitment to upholding Canadian rights to free speech and peaceful assembly.
Nijjar's advocacy for an autonomous Sikh homeland in India and his organization of nonbinding referendums on Sikh statehood in Canada had made him a target of Indian security agencies, who designated him a terrorist. Despite these challenges, Canadian authorities continue to investigate and pursue justice in Nijjar's case.
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