Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has addressed the ongoing investigation into the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, an India-designated terrorist, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to the rule of law. Trudeau’s remarks come in the wake of three Indian nationals’ recent arrest, suspected of involvement in Nijjar’s murder.
Trudeau clarified that the investigation is not solely focused on these arrests but extends to broader inquiries, underscoring Canada’s status as a rule-of-law country with a robust and independent justice system. He made these statements at the Sikh Foundation of Canada’s Centennial Gala event, acknowledging the concerns within the Sikh community and assuring Canadians of their fundamental rights to safety and justice.
The arrest of the three individuals came after Canadian police released photographs amid an ongoing probe into potential connections to the Indian government. However, authorities have not provided evidence linking the suspects to India, dismissing media speculations.
The killing of Nijjar, designated a terrorist by India’s National Investigation Agency in 2020, occurred outside a Gurdwara in Surrey last year. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has been leading the investigation, collaborating with various agencies across Canada.
Trudeau’s comments follow earlier diplomatic tensions between Canada and India after he accused India of involvement in Nijjar’s killing, a claim India vehemently denied as baseless. The incident underscores the complexities surrounding international investigations and the need for thorough legal processes in resolving such cases.
