Mon Oct 14 20:03:37 UTC 2024: ## India Expels Six Canadian Diplomats in Diplomatic Row
**New Delhi, October 18:** In a significant escalation of the diplomatic row between India and Canada, the Indian government has expelled six Canadian diplomats, ordering them to leave the country by October 19, 11:59 pm.
The move comes as a direct response to Canada’s allegations linking Indian officials to the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. The expelled diplomats include Acting High Commissioner Stewart Ross Wheeler, Deputy High Commissioner Patrick Hebert, First Secretary Mary Catherine Jolie, First Secretary Lane Ross David Trites, First Secretary Adam James Chuipka, and First Secretary Paula Orjuela.
Earlier on Monday, India had recalled its High Commissioner and other diplomats and officials from Canada, citing their “targeting” by the Canadian government. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had summoned Canada’s chargé d’affaires, expressing deep concern over the “unwarranted targeting” of Indian diplomats and demanding their protection.
The MEA stated that the “unfounded actions” of the Trudeau government, particularly in creating an environment of “extremism and violence,” had compromised the safety of Indian officials. India has also reserved the right to take further action in response to Canada’s “support for extremism, violence, and separatism against India.”
The diplomatic spat has further strained relations between the two countries, following months of tension over allegations of Indian government involvement in Nijjar’s killing.
First Piper 