Toronto: Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has revised its earlier position, acknowledging that foreign entities are involved in intimidation and harassment activities within the country.
In a clarification issued on April 1, the RCMP said it is aware of complaints from certain communities facing threats and intimidation, and confirmed that foreign actors are engaged in such activities in Canada.
The statement marks a shift from RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme’s earlier remarks, in which he had said investigators found no direct link between intimidation incidents and any foreign government.
The RCMP clarified that while such activities are being reported, establishing a direct, court-admissible connection to a foreign entity remains a complex process.
The development comes in the backdrop of strained India-Canada relations following the 2023 killing of pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.
Canadian authorities had earlier alleged the involvement of Indian agents in violence and extortion targeting Sikh separatists, with particular focus on the Lawrence Bishnoi network. Canada had designated the group as a terrorist organisation in September 2025.
India has consistently rejected these allegations as baseless and politically motivated, while urging Canada to take action against extremist elements operating on its soil.
Despite tensions, both countries have taken steps to restore diplomatic ties, including the reinstatement of high commissioners and high-level engagements between national security advisors and foreign ministers.
