New Delhi: The ongoing diplomatic tension between India and Canada shows no signs of abating, as recent leaks to the media suggest that Canada, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, claims to possess evidence linking Indian officials to the assassination of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.

The intelligence purportedly originates not solely from Canada but also from an undisclosed ally within the 'Five Eyes' alliance. It is worth noting that this exclusive pact comprises Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.

As per reports, the leaked information also points fingers at Indian diplomats stationed in Canada. The Canadian government, in its media disclosures, asserts that it possesses concrete evidence obtained from both human sources and signals intelligence, alluding to the possible involvement of Indian officials in the assassination.

The term 'signals intelligence' typically refers to electronic surveillance methods. The strong support from Washington for Canada strongly hints at the undisclosed member of the 'Five Eyes' alliance being the United States, as mentioned in the report.

Escalating Diplomatic Standoff
Tensions between India and Canada escalated earlier this week following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's explosive allegations against India regarding the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18 in British Columbia. India had officially designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020.

India vehemently rejected these claims, branding them as 'absurd' and 'motivated.'

Suspension of Visa Services
On Thursday, India strongly criticized Canada, urging it to take decisive action against terrorists and individuals harboring anti-India agendas. India temporarily suspended visa services for Canadian nationals.

India further requested Canada to downsize its diplomatic personnel stationed in India, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance in terms of staff numbers and rank equivalency.

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