Canadian diplomats have left the country as the fallout over the US indictment connecting two separatists' deaths to a plot in Delhi escalates. The Canadian High Commissioner has denounced India's response and emphasized the need for accountability to improve relations going forward. The onus is now on India to collaborate on finding a resolution to the ongoing issue.
Canadian Diplomats Depart Amid Escalating Tensions Over India Indictment
Canadian diplomats have withdrawn from India following an escalating diplomatic crisis sparked by the US indictment of two separatists in connection with the assassination of two Indian politicians. India has responded to the allegations by accusing Canada of harboring separatists, leading to a tense standoff between the two nations.
Background:
The roots of the current crisis lie in a long-standing separatist movement in the Indian state of Punjab. In 2016, two Indian politicians were shot dead, allegedly by members of the Sikh separatist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI).
In January 2022, the US Department of Justice indicted two Canadian nationals, Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Sukhdeep Singh Gill, for allegedly conspiring to murder the politicians. The indictment alleges that the plot was orchestrated from Delhi, India.
Escalating Tensions:
India has vehemently denied any involvement in the plot and has condemned Canada for harboring separatists. It has recalled its High Commissioner from Ottawa and accused Canada of violating international law.
Canada has rejected India's allegations, emphasizing that it does not tolerate terrorism or violence. The Canadian High Commissioner has denounced India's response and stressed the need for accountability to improve relations.
Canada's Response:
In response to India's withdrawal of its High Commissioner, Canada has temporarily withdrawn its diplomats from New Delhi. It has also demanded that India provide evidence to support its allegations.
Canada has reiterated its commitment to fighting terrorism and has emphasized that it cannot be held accountable for the actions of individuals who violate its laws.
Top 5 FAQs:
Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Sukhdeep Singh Gill.
To assassinate two Indian politicians in 2016.
To protest Canada's alleged harboring of separatists and its response to the US indictment.
It rejects India's allegations and demands evidence to support them.
Tense and uncertain, with Canadian diplomats temporarily withdrawn from New Delhi.
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