Canadian Sikh MP Calls for Sanctions on Indian Diplomats, Faces Journalistic Backlash

Canadian Sikh leader Jagmeet Singh, a former ally of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, faced ridicule from journalists during a recent press conference. He called for sanctions on Indian diplomats amid rising tensions between Canada and India. As Singh walked out, he encountered tough questions and mockery from the press.

“We need to impose severe sanctions on Indian diplomats,” Singh stated. He cited claims from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) that Indian diplomats were allegedly collaborating with criminal groups to target Canadians. Singh, known for his support of Khalistani causes, emphasized the need to hold the Modi government accountable. “We must unify as Canadian leaders to denounce Modi and prioritize Canadians’ safety,” he declared before leaving the conference.

The backdrop to Singh’s remarks involves recent accusations from the RCMP. The agency alleged that Indian agents in Canada collaborated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang to target pro-Khalistani figures. This accusation intensified the ongoing diplomatic spat between India and Canada.

Singh previously supported Trudeau’s Liberal government for over two years. However, he withdrew his support last month, accusing Trudeau of failing to fulfill his promises. Singh has a history of participating in rallies with Khalistani extremists, advocating for a separate Sikh state.

Amidst this tension, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly hinted that the Trudeau government might impose sanctions on Indian diplomats, stating that “everything is on the table” due to the diplomatic rift.

The situation escalated on Monday when India condemned Canada’s accusations regarding the murder of pro-Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, dismissing them as “preposterous.” Both countries have since recalled diplomats in a tit-for-tat move, reflecting the deteriorating relationship. Ties soured further last September when Trudeau alleged Indian involvement in Nijjar’s killing, which India labeled as “motivated and absurd.”