The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has announced that its ongoing investigation into the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader, has found no evidence linking the Indian government to the killing. This statement marks a significant shift from the Canadian government's earlier public stance, which had led to a severe diplomatic fallout between New Delhi and Ottawa.
RCMP Deputy Commissioner Moreland informed CBC News that while charges have been laid in connection with the organised crime investigation, “nothing has come out to link the Indian government” to the incident. This contradicts former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s assertion in June 2023 that Canadian security agencies were investigating credible allegations of Indian government involvement in Nijjar's assassination.
US Indictments Shed Light on Transnational Crime
The latest development follows the unsealing of US indictments under 'Operation Hard Ball,' a long-term investigation into transnational organised crime. These indictments named gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his associate Goldy Brar in connection with Nijjar’s killing. However, the US Department of Justice’s probe did not allege any role by the Indian government.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and the chief of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, was shot dead on June 18, 2023, in Surrey, British Columbia. India had consistently denied any involvement in his death, calling the allegations “absurd” and unsupported by evidence.
Diplomatic Relations and Future Steps
The initial allegations by the Trudeau government severely strained India-Canada relations, leading to diplomatic expulsions and a suspension of bilateral talks. Relations have reportedly begun to improve following Mark Carney becoming Prime Minister, with renewed engagements on trade, energy, and security.
The US Department of Justice described Operation Hard Ball as a years-long effort targeting Indian organised crime syndicates involved in extortion, drug trafficking, kidnapping, and violence across North America and Europe. Thirty-seven defendants were charged, with 24 arrested, and 10 fugitives currently being sought. The US is expected to seek the extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently jailed in Gujarat, India.
RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme confirmed arrests and charges against leaders of three global organised crime groups involved in various illicit activities, including Nijjar’s killing. These groups reportedly recruited impoverished individuals from Punjab and facilitated their entry into Canada as students or workers.
Moreland’s remarks also came after India withdrew six diplomats following Ottawa’s request to waive their immunity for questioning over unrelated violent criminal activity, allegations that were not part of the US indictments. Canada’s intelligence agencies continue to monitor Khalistani extremists, viewing them as a security threat.