In a first-of-its-kind event, India expelled a senior diplomat belonging to Canada, as the relationship between two nations soured. Though the diplomat’s name was not revealed, the Indian Government announced about the expulsion and asked the Canada representative to leave the nation within five days. The Indian Government took this stand, responding to Canada’s decision to expel an Indian diplomat who is heading India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in Canada.
India also took serious objection to Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegation that Indian agents were behind the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, leader of separatist leader of Khalistani movement. With the PM of Canada himself making such a serious allegation, India responded even more seriously, clarifying Justin Trudeau’s allegation as absolutely absurd and motivated.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a Khalistani movement leader killed in June. He was shot by unidentified persons. He has been propagating for a separate Khalistan. This controversial demand has been creating tensions between the two nations, India and Canada, who otherwise enjoy a very cordial relationship.