Canada and India to Share Terrorism Intelligence Despite Ongoing Tensions Over 2023 Nijjar Murder: Report

Canada and India are reportedly preparing to cooperate on intelligence sharing to counter growing threats of international crime and extremism, according to a new report. The development comes just days before a scheduled meeting between the countries’ leaders at the G7 summit in Alberta.

Canadian officials have declined to confirm the report, which, if accurate, would mark a significant shift in bilateral relations. 

The proposed agreement, expected to be announced during the G7 summit, would see law enforcement agencies from both nations increase collaboration on transnational crime, terrorism, and extremist threats. Canada has reportedly advocated for more scrutiny on alleged extrajudicial killings as part of the deal.

Prime Minister Mark Carney recently defended his decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the G7 summit, despite backlash stemming from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's assertion that Nijjar’s murder was carried out at the direction of India’s highest authorities. Four Indian nationals residing in Canada have since been charged in connection with the killing.

Carney acknowledged the gravity of the ongoing legal process in Canada, stating it was “quite advanced,” while also pointing to India’s strategic global importance as the world’s most populous nation and its role in global supply chains.

The invitation to Modi has faced strong criticism, particularly from lawmakers in British Columbia. Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal, who represents the Surrey riding where Nijjar was killed, expressed concerns directly to Carney, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law.

“We take pride in being a nation that champions justice,” Dhaliwal told the Canadian Press. “When it comes to fundamental rights and serving justice for victims, it must remain non-negotiable.”

Dhaliwal said the prime minister was “alarmed” by the situation and committed to addressing it firmly in his discussions with Modi.

Tensions between the two countries have remained high since former prime minister Justin Trudeau publicly accused the Indian government of orchestrating Nijjar’s assassination, deepening a diplomatic rift that has yet to fully heal.