India Accuses Canada of Sheltering Terrorists, Sparks Diplomatic Tension

MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi highlights the grave concerns of terrorism, terror funding, and foreign safe havens for terrorists as the central issue.

_{^{India and Canada Embroiled in Diplomatic Tension Following Alleged Killing of Khalistani Terrorist. (Photo: AFP)}}

India has accused the Canadian government of harboring terrorists, escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations. This dispute stems from the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Arindam Bagchi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, emphasized the broader issue of terrorism, terror funding, and the provision of safe havens for terrorists abroad.

Bagchi urged Canada to refrain from providing safe havens to terrorists and to take action against those facing terrorism charges, either by prosecuting them locally or extraditing them to India. He asserted that Canada should be concerned about its reputation as a sanctuary for terrorists, extremists, and organized crime, suggesting that its international standing was at risk.

India revealed that it had sought the extradition of 20-25 individuals over the years, but Canada’s response had been uncooperative. Regarding the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canada had not shared any specific information with India, despite India’s willingness to investigate the matter. Bagchi labeled Canada’s allegations against India regarding Nijjar’s killing as politically motivated and suggested a degree of prejudice.

He also noted that India had shared specific information about criminal activities occurring on Canadian soil but had seen no action taken. The MEA spokesperson further mentioned that India had informed its allies about the diplomatic dispute with Canada and that visa applications were temporarily halted at the Indian high commission and consulates in Canada due to security concerns.

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Toshika Chauhan