US Declares 'No Special Exemption' for India Amid Escalating Dispute Over Terrorist's Killing

Amid escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Canada over allegations regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil, the US confirmed ongoing communication with both countries. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized that the US was taking the matter seriously and would maintain contact with high-level Indian officials. He stated that there was no special exemption for India in this case.

Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau had accused "agents of the Indian government" of involvement in Nijjar's killing, a claim vehemently rejected by New Delhi as absurd and motivated. In response, India expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move following Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official.

Sullivan dismissed the notion that the U.S. prioritizing its ties with India would limit its ability to voice concerns over the allegations. He reiterated that the Biden administration was in constant contact with Canada and took the allegations seriously.

Sullivan firmly rejected the idea of a wedge between the US and Canada on this issue, emphasizing that the US had deep concerns about the allegations and called for a thorough investigation and accountability for the perpetrators.

In response to the diplomatic standoff, India requested Canada to take stringent measures against terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil. India suspended visa services for Canadians and urged Canada to reduce its diplomatic staff presence in India to achieve parity in strength and rank equivalence between the two nations' diplomatic missions.

This development came after Canada announced plans to adjust its staff presence in its consulates in India due to threats received by some diplomats on social media platforms.

Also Read:  Punjab’s Most Wanted Seek Refuge in Canada: Goldy Brar to Landa

OTT India updates you with the latest news, The Country’s no.1 digital news platform OTT India. Keeps you updated with national, and international news from all around the world. For more such updates, download the OTT India app on your Android and IOS device.