India and Canada stand-off: Know all about Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar

PTC Web Desk: The recent expulsion of a top Indian diplomat by Canada has thrust the name Hardeep Singh Nijjar into the international spotlight. Nijjar, a staunch pro-Sikh supporter, met a tragic end when he was gunned down on June 18th, right outside a Sikh cultural center in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. This incident has not only escalated tensions between the two nations but has also raised concerns regarding the potential involvement of Indian government agents in Nijjar's killing.

"India rejects allegations by Canada," MEA issues statement.

"We have seen and reject the statement of the Canadian Prime Minister in their Parliament, as also the statement by their Foreign Minister. Allegations of Government of India's involvement in any act of violence in… pic.twitter.com/RmH8eFDinR

— ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2023

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a startling revelation when he cited "credible allegations of a potential link" between the Indian government and the assassination of the Sikh leader. He emphasised that any foreign government's involvement in the murder of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil was an unacceptable violation of Canada's sovereignty. Trudeau made these remarks during a session in the Canadian parliament, underlining the gravity of the situation.

Trudeau further revealed that his government had been closely collaborating with Canada's allies in investigating this case. The expulsion of the Indian diplomat came at a time when tensions between Canada and India had been steadily rising due to an uptick in pro-Khalistan activities within Canada's borders.

Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar?

• Early Life and Associations: Hardeep Singh Nijjar, affiliated with the banned Indian separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), held a prominent position within the organisation, serving as the 'Number 2' figure after Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Nijjar hailed from the Bharsingh Pura village in Jalandhar, according to Punjab Police dossiers, and relocated to Canada in 1996.
• Transition to Canada: In Canada, Nijjar initially worked as a plumber, but in recent years, his wealth experienced a significant surge due to his active involvement in Sikh activities.
• Involvement in Terrorism: Nijjar's association with terrorism began with his membership in the Babbar Khalsa International, led by Jagtar Singh Tara. Later, he went on to establish his own group, the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). His role in identifying, connecting, training, and funding cells in India resulted in over 10 FIRs being lodged against him.
• Notable Crimes: In 2014, Nijjar masterminded the assassination of self-proclaimed spiritual leader Baba Bhaniara. The following year, in 2015, he conducted a training camp in Canada, where he instructed Mandeep Singh Dhaliwal, who was subsequently dispatched to Punjab with a mission to target Shiv Sena leaders. Mandeep was arrested in June 2016.
• Recent Activities: In November 2020, Nijjar joined forces with fellow gangster Arsh Dalla, who was also residing abroad. Together, they became embroiled in the murder of Manohar Lal, a follower of the Dera Sacha Sauda, which occurred at Lal's office in Bhagta Bhai Ka, Bathinda, in 2021.

The life and activities of Hardeep Singh Nijjar reveal the complex web of pro-Khalistan sentiments, terrorism, and international intrigue that continues to challenge relations between India and Canada. The circumstances surrounding his death remain shrouded in controversy, with both nations closely watching developments in the ongoing investigation.

- With inputs from agencies

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