New Delhi

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has criticized Canada for failing to take action against criminals and anti-India elements, despite receiving multiple extradition and provisional arrest requests from India over the past decade. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that there are currently 26 extradition requests pending with Canada, alongside several requests for the provisional arrest of various criminals. Among those sought for extradition are individuals like Gurjeet Singh, Gurjinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh, Lakbir Singh Landa, and Arshdeep Singh Gill, who face serious charges related to terrorism.

Jaiswal pointed out that India has provided security information regarding gang members, including members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, urging Canada to take necessary legal action. However, he expressed concern that despite these efforts, Canada has not acted on these requests.

Additionally, Jaiswal noted a contradiction in Canada’s position, where individuals India wants deported are now being accused by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) of committing crimes in Canada, suggesting India’s culpability. This diplomatic tension escalated after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian diplomats of gathering information on Canadians linked to a recent murder case. Following this, India recalled its High Commissioner and five other diplomats from Canada, citing safety concerns. The situation intensified after the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year, which has led to further diplomatic fallout between the two nations.