Canada accuses Amit Shah of directing campaign against sikh separatists
The Canadian government has accused Indian Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah of orchestrating plots against Khalistanis in Canada. This allegation follows Canada’s expulsion of Indian diplomats linked to the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
According to The Washington Post, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister David Morrison confirmed Shah’s alleged involvement in a campaign of violence and intimidation aimed at Khalistani activists. Morrison did not offer evidence but stated, “The journalist called me and asked if it (Shah) was that person. I confirmed it was that person.” The Indian government has categorically dismissed these accusations as baseless.
The demand for Khalistan, an independent Sikh homeland, has a violent history, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s when an insurgency resulted in tens of thousands of deaths. Notably, the 1984 anti-Sikh riots erupted after Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards, following her order to storm the Golden Temple to eliminate Sikh separatists.
Tensions between Canada and India escalated significantly in mid-October. Following the murder of Nijjar, who India labeled a Khalistani terrorist, Canada expelled Indian diplomats, which prompted India to retaliate by expelling six Canadian diplomats. The Indian High Commissioner in Canada, Sanjay Verma, was named a “person of interest” in the investigation but was recalled before further actions could be taken.
In addition to these diplomatic tensions, Canadian authorities have also alleged that Indian agents are involved in “homicides, extortion, and violent acts” targeting pro-Khalistan supporters. Reports have even attempted to connect criminal gangs, like the Bishnoi gang, to activities in Canada, although specific details remain vague.
This ongoing situation highlights the complex relationship between Canada and India, particularly concerning the Sikh diaspora and their aspirations for Khalistan.
