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24-09-2023
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has openly urged India to assist Canada in its probe into the slaying of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Canada has claimed that the Indian government and its operatives were involved in the assassination of Nijjar, who was assassinated in June close to Vancouver.
During a press appearance at the UN General Assembly, Blinken stressed the significance of accountability and pleaded with India to assist in a comprehensive probe.
“We demand accountability. Blinken stressed the importance of the probe moving forward and producing the required results while underscoring the gravity of “transnational repression” as a bigger problem.”
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had already urged India to cooperate with the probe, alleging that Indian government operatives were involved in Nijjar’s slaying.
Nijjar, a citizen of Canada, was sought by India on suspicion of supporting terrorism and planning a murder. He was connected to the Khalistan movement, which supported a separate country for Sikhs.
India reduced the size of its embassy staff in Canada and suspended visa services in reaction to these accusations. The United States expressed concern in an effort to improve relations with India.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan had made it clear the day before that India would not be given a “special exemption” in this regard.
In a recent official visit, President Joe Biden welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the importance of the US-India partnership.
When asked about how this event would affect their relationship, Sullivan emphasized that the US will support its ideals no matter whether a country is involved.
Canada is aggressively looking into verifiable claims that Indian government officials were responsible for the assassination of Nijjar, and it keeps in close contact with the US.
By highlighting their common concerns and desire to carry the inquiry through to its conclusion and hold the offenders accountable, Sullivan disputed the idea that there is a divide between the US and Canada.
According to Sullivan, “We have serious concerns about the allegations and want to make sure the investigation is carried out, holding the perpetrators accountable.” (Int’l News Desk)
