Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): Canada’s federal policing agency has revised its earlier stance on alleged foreign interference, saying ongoing investigations no longer point to India’s involvement in criminal activities within the country.
Speaking to CTV News, Mike Duheme, head of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, said that recent case assessments have not produced evidence tying the Government of India to covert operations or intimidation efforts on Canadian soil.
Duheme noted that while previous inquiries had raised concerns about possible foreign links, the latest findings do not establish any such connection. He added that investigations into cross-border influence are often complex, and identifying a direct line to a foreign state can be difficult.
The remarks signal a departure from the commissioner’s position in 2024, when he had indicated that investigators believed there was credible evidence suggesting a broader network behind acts of violence and threats, potentially extending to senior levels of the Indian establishment. Those statements had intensified diplomatic friction between Canada and India.
Clarifying the shift, Duheme explained that earlier conclusions were based on the evidence available at that stage of the investigation. He said current case files do not support the same assertions, underscoring how evolving evidence can reshape investigative outcomes.
On the issue of organized crime, Duheme addressed the growing mention of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang in incidents reported across Canada. He suggested that some individuals may be invoking the gang’s name without having real ties to it, complicating efforts to determine accountability.
The Bishnoi network has been repeatedly cited in connection with extortion threats and targeted attacks, though authorities now believe not every case linked to the name reflects direct involvement.
The change in tone from Canadian authorities comes as both countries attempt to stabilize relations after a period of strain. Diplomatic outreach has resumed, and recent engagements — including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to New Delhi — indicate a cautious effort to rebuild trust.
While the latest assessment may ease some tensions, officials stress that investigations remain active and conclusions could evolve if new evidence surfaces.
