Mon Oct 14 17:42:38 UTC 2024: ## India Recalls High Commissioner, Expels Canadian Diplomats in Diplomatic Row
**New Delhi, October 14, 2024:** India has taken a hard stance against Canada, recalling its High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, and expelling six Canadian diplomats. This move comes as a response to Canada’s decision to expel six Indian diplomats, including the High Commissioner, over allegations of their involvement in the assassination of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
The Indian government has condemned Canada’s accusations, calling them “baseless” and “politically motivated.” India has also expressed a lack of trust in the current Canadian government and its commitment to the safety of its diplomats, citing the alleged threat posed by the ongoing atmosphere of extremism and violence.
The diplomatic row has been brewing since June 2023, when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of having a role in Nijjar’s assassination. This led to a series of escalating tensions, culminating in the recent release of a Canadian investigation report that pointed fingers at the Indian High Commissioner.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated, “In the prevailing atmosphere of extremism and violence, actions by the Trudeau government have put the safety of our diplomats at risk. We have no confidence in the current Canadian government’s commitment to their safety. Therefore, the Indian government has decided to recall the Indian High Commissioner and other diplomats targeted by the Canadian government.”
The diplomatic standoff between the two countries highlights a growing rift in their relationship and raises concerns about the future of bilateral ties.
First Piper 