Britain, Australia and the United States, Canada’s close allies and members of the “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliance have expressed serious concern about Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s claims of a “possible link” between Indian government officials and the killings. of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June.
After the Canadian Prime Minister’s serious accusations against India in the country’s parliament, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) termed them as “absurd and motivated”. The MEA asserted that “such unsubstantiated allegations are aimed at diverting attention from Khalistani terrorists … who have been sheltered in Canada and continue to threaten India’s independence”.
In response to Ottawa’s announcement of expelling an Indian official linked to the death of a Khalistani leader, New Delhi has similarly expelled a “high-ranking Canadian diplomat.”
After Prime Minister Trudeau made claims against the South Asian country, he also reportedly spoke with some of Canada’s closest allies such as the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia. These countries have also responded to the demands of the Prime Minister of Canada.
England
On Tuesday, Britain said it was in close contact with its Canadian counterparts regarding “serious allegations” made by Ottawa, implicating the Indian government in the killing of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada.
“We are in close contact with our Canadian partners regarding these serious allegations,” a UK government spokesman said.
“It would be inappropriate to comment further during the ongoing investigation by Canadian authorities,” Britain said.
United States
Expressing dismay at the allegations, the United States said it was important for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.
In a brief statement, White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said, “We are deeply concerned about the allegations made by Prime Minister Trudeau.”
“We remain in constant contact with our Canadian partners. It is important that the Canadian investigation continues and the perpetrators are brought to justice,” Watson added.
Australia
A representative of the Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, said that Canberra’s concerns were conveyed to New Delhi at the “highest levels”.
In a statement, the spokesperson said, “Australia is deeply concerned by these allegations and notes the ongoing investigation into this matter. Australia believes that all countries should respect the authority and rule of law.
“We are working closely with development partners. We have conveyed our concerns at the highest levels to India,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson also emphasized that “these reports will concern certain Australian communities” and emphasized the importance of freedom of expression.
“Overseas Indians are valued and important contributors to our vibrant and multicultural society, where all Australians can express themselves in peace and safety,” the spokesperson added.
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