Canada says no threat to CM Amarinder Singh, closes investigation

Chandigarh, July 23 : Citing non-availability of “sufficient evidence”, the Canadian government has told India that there is no threat to Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and has concluded its investigation into the matter.In a communication to the Indian authorities, Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development has stated that the investigation had been conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Sources in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi said that the Canadian authorities, in the communication, has said that the RCMP investigation has determined that there is no evidence of direct physical threat made towards Amarinder Singh. It further stated that there was “not sufficient evidence” to file criminal charges or proceed against anyone. The Canadian government said that in view of the findings, the investigation had been concluded. The Indian High Commission in Canada had lodged a “formal complaint” to Global Affairs-Canada (Canada’s foreign office) in April following a threat publicly issued to the Punjab Chief Minister by pro-Khalistan elements during a Baisakhi Day event in British Columbia’s Surrey city. The threat was part of the hate speeches made by Sikh radicals operating out of Canada.