India has reacted strongly to the Canadian government naming its ambassador and diplomats as "persons of interest" in a murder investigation involving a Sikh separatist. In response to the diplomatic communication from Canada, India rebuffed the accusations as baseless and politically motivated, linked to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's earlier allegations. The row, stemming from the June 2023 murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a proponent of the Khalistan movement, has strained bilateral relations. Despite a temporary easing of tensions with resumed visa processes in October 2023, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly highlighted ongoing difficulties, citing potential threats following Nijjar's killing. India insists on the lack of evidence provided by Canada and has responded by asserting its diplomats' integrity and warning of further actions.