India has decided to withdraw its High Commissioner from Canada, escalating an already tense diplomatic standoff between the two countries. The move comes after Canada linked the Indian High Commissioner, Sanjay Kumar Verma, and other diplomats to the investigation of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed concerns about the safety of its diplomats in Canada, accusing the Canadian government of fostering an atmosphere of extremism and violence.

In a statement, the MEA described Canada’s allegations as "ludicrous" and dismissed them as a politically motivated attempt to smear India. The ministry noted that Verma, a senior diplomat with 36 years of service, had a distinguished career and that the claims against him were baseless. India also warned that it may take further measures if the Canadian government continues to support extremist elements.

This latest escalation follows a series of diplomatic disputes, including India’s earlier decision to restrict visas for Canadian citizens and a demand for Ottawa to reduce its diplomatic staff in India. The core issue, according to New Delhi, is Canada's leniency towards pro-Khalistan groups, which operate freely within the country. The Khalistan movement advocates for an independent Sikh state and is a source of friction between the two nations, as Canada is home to a large Sikh community.

Although Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have met on the sidelines of international summits, no meaningful resolution has emerged. Tensions have continued to grow, with both nations hardening their positions on the matter.