Canada's Police Chief Declares No Evidence of Indian Government's Transnational Repression

No Evidence of Foreign Interference, Says Canadian Police Chief

Ottawa: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Commissioner, Mike Duheme, has stated that there are currently no covert operations or instances of transnational repression in Canada associated with the Indian government. This assertion was made during an interview with CTV News.

Duheme emphasized that, based on ongoing investigations and available criminal data, there is no evidence linking any foreign entity to such activities. He noted, 'We are not observing any connections at this moment with any foreign entity.'

He further elaborated that while there are reports of intimidation and harassment, there is no substantiated link to any foreign government, including India, based on the information they possess.

These remarks come amid heightened diplomatic strains between Canada and India. Relations between the two nations deteriorated significantly after allegations were made by then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2023, suggesting a possible Indian connection to the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which India has vehemently denied.

In October 2024, diplomatic tensions escalated when India recalled its high commissioner and five other diplomats in response to Canada's attempts to associate them with the Nijjar case, prompting India to expel an equal number of Canadian diplomats.

However, the political landscape shifted with the Liberal Party leader Mark Carney's election victory in April last year, paving the way for a thaw in relations. Both nations have since reinstated their high commissioners in each other's capitals.

Earlier this month, Carney's visit to India resulted in significant agreements regarding uranium and critical minerals, with both countries expressing intentions to finalize a comprehensive economic partnership agreement soon.