Two men accused of assassinating Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh activist in British Columbia, managed to obtain Canadian study permits surprisingly quickly, with one claiming it took just a few days. This revelation has prompted intense scrutiny of Canada’s student visa process. Karan Brar, one of the suspects, stated in a 2019 video that he secured his visa through EthicWorks Immigration Services in Punjab, India, shortly after applying. This video was used as a promotional tool on EthicWorks’ social media.
Brar’s rapid acquisition of the visa has drawn attention to potential vulnerabilities in the immigration system. He was enrolled at Bow Valley College but questions have been raised about his prolonged stay in Canada post-graduation. Immigration authorities and the college have denied any affiliation with EthicWorks.
Meanwhile, the case takes on a complex international dimension with allegations of foreign interference. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has hinted at possible connections between the suspects and the Indian government, which India has denied. The case coincides with broader concerns about foreign interference in Canadian affairs, underscored by recent intelligence reports.
The unfolding investigation and subsequent trial are likely to scrutinize both the immigration loopholes and the alleged geopolitical manipulations, further straining the diplomatic relations between Canada and India.