The Guardian view on Canada and India: from partnership to public claims of a killing | Editorial

Whatever the truth about the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the row shows that building relationships with New Delhi won't be easy

Canada made waves when it recently announced an inquiry into potential foreign election interference. Its tanking relations with China have been watched closely, not least for how they reflect upon other western countries' dealings with Beijing. Russia's activities were also under scrutiny. Fewer people noticed that ministers also cited the potential role of the Indian government.

The decision looks like a ripple in a millpond following Justin Trudeau's extraordinary statement that Canada is pursuing credible allegations" of a potential link between New Delhi and the murder of a Canadian national, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in British Columbia this June. Nijjar had campaigned for an independent Sikh nation - known as Khalistan - to be created from Punjab state. Indian authorities had accused him of terrorism, and issued a bounty for his arrest. Canada's spy agency had reportedly warned him of threats.