SURREY, B.C. – The trial of four Indian nationals accused of the murder of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar has been adjourned for the fifth time. The case, which has attracted significant attention due to its impact on diplomatic relations between Canada and India, was postponed again on Tuesday as the Crown continues to disclose extensive documentation to the defence.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was fatally shot while leaving the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey on June 18, 2023. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau later announced that Canadian security agencies were investigating “credible allegations” linking the Indian government to Nijjar’s killing, a claim India denies.
Supporters of Nijjar, many of whom view the murder as politically motivated due to his advocacy for the Khalistan movement, gathered outside the courthouse to protest. The group, holding signs and flags, expressed concerns over foreign influence in Canada’s political processes, both at the provincial and federal levels.
Moninder Singh, a spokesperson for the BC Gurdwaras Council, voiced worries about foreign interference, stating, “I think most Canadians are still unaware as to how badly the sovereignty of this country is being undermined by countries like India.”
The four accused—Amandeep Singh, 22; Karan Brar, 22; Kamalpreet Singh, 22; and Karanpreet Singh, 28—face charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
