New Delhi: In a surprising admission, two senior officials from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government have confirmed leaking intelligence about India to the Washington Post. This comes as Canadian police investigate the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, suggesting links to the Indian government and violent actions in Canada.
During a parliamentary session, Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison claimed that a senior Indian official was involved in planning attacks against Sikh separatists in Canada. However, Nathalie Drouin, Trudeau’s national security adviser, contradicted this assertion, stating, “This is not the information we provided to the (Washington Post) journalist.” She clarified that no classified information was shared and described the leak as part of a “communications strategy” approved by the Prime Minister’s office.
Drouin explained that the information shared with the Washington Post detailed Canada’s cooperation with India and evidence of illegal activities linked to the Indian government, including threats against Canadians.
The diplomatic tensions escalated on October 14 when Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, following India’s designation of Canadian diplomats as “persons of interest” in the Nijjar investigation. This followed serious allegations from top RCMP officials against India.
A report published on October 13 revealed that India’s National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, held a secret meeting with his Canadian counterpart in Singapore, where Canadian officials allegedly presented evidence of India’s involvement in Nijjar’s murder. Drouin confirmed that Doval denied these allegations during the meeting.
The parliamentary panel expressed concern over the leak, with Conservative critic Raquel Dancho calling it “unfair to the Canadian public.” RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme emphasized that the leaked information was not classified and warned that public disclosure could jeopardize ongoing investigations.
This controversy unfolds amid heightened tensions, with India accusing Canada of unfounded claims. Historically, India has labeled Nijjar a terrorist associated with various violent incidents, while Canada faces scrutiny for its handling of pro-Khalistan elements.
