Three Indian men have been arrested in Canada and charged with the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia last year. The suspects, identified as Kamalpreet Singh, 22, Karan Brar, 22, and Karanpreet Singh, 28, appeared in court via video link and agreed to a trial in English. They have been charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
Last year, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau mentioned 'credible allegations' of Indian involvement in Nijjar's murder, sparking a diplomatic dispute between the two countries. However, the Indian government has stated that no specific evidence linking Delhi to the crime has been shared by Canadian authorities.
India's External Affairs Ministry spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, expressed concerns over Canada providing shelter to individuals advocating violence against India. Jaiswal highlighted that extradition requests from India are pending and diplomats have faced threats and obstruction in their duties.
The investigation into whether the arrested men have ties to the Indian government is ongoing, according to Canadian Mounted Police Superintendent Mandeep Mooker. The suspects, who were living in Canada as non-permanent residents, were apprehended in Edmonton, Alberta.
India has been informed about the arrests, but no access to Indian diplomats has been sought by the suspects. The two countries are engaged in diplomatic discussions regarding the matter, with India refuting accusations of its involvement in Nijjar's murder.
The three Indian men are scheduled to appear in British Columbia Provincial Court again on May 21 for further legal proceedings.
