In a significant development following efforts to ease tensions between India and Canada, the country’s top police official has stated that there is currently no evidence linking the Indian government to criminal activities on Canadian soil.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Commissioner Mike Duheme said recent investigations have not established any connection between ongoing violent crimes and foreign entities, including India.
Speaking in an interview, Duheme clarified that while incidents of harassment and intimidation have been reported, authorities have not found proof tying these actions to any foreign government.
“We are not seeing any connection at this time with any foreign entity,” he said, adding that existing evidence does not support earlier concerns of external involvement.
Shift from Earlier Allegations
Canada had previously raised serious allegations of foreign interference and transnational repression, including claims that Indian agents were linked to criminal acts. These accusations had strained diplomatic relations between the two nations.
However, Duheme’s latest remarks suggest a reassessment of the situation based on updated investigations, indicating that earlier conclusions may no longer hold.
Criminal Networks Under Scrutiny
Addressing concerns over organised crime, the RCMP chief noted that not all extortion cases reported in cities such as Surrey, Brampton, and Calgary are connected to known groups like the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
He pointed out that some individuals may falsely use the names of such groups, complicating investigations. Importantly, no verified link has been established between these activities and the Indian government.
Diplomatic Relations Show Signs of Improvement
The statement comes at a time when India and Canada are working to rebuild ties after a period of diplomatic strain. Relations had deteriorated sharply following allegations made in 2023 regarding the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
India had strongly denied the claims, leading to a series of retaliatory measures, including the expulsion of diplomats by both sides.
Recent engagements between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian leadership, including meetings with Prime Minister Mark Carney, indicate a gradual thaw in relations.
Reassessment Based on New Evidence
Officials have also indicated that earlier statements made in 2024 were based on the evidence available at that time. With new findings, authorities now acknowledge that current investigations do not support a direct foreign link.
The latest comments from Canada’s top law enforcement official mark a notable shift in tone and could play a key role in stabilising bilateral relations moving forward.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
