Canadian Intel Chief’s Visits to India to Discuss Nijjar Case

Canadian Intel Chief’s Visits to India to Discuss Nijjar Case

Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) Director David Vigneault has made two visits to India in recent months to discuss the case of Jaspal Atwal, a convicted attempted murderer who attended an event hosted by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2018.

Background

In March 2018, Atwal was found to have attended a reception in New Delhi attended by Trudeau. Atwal had been convicted of attempted murder in Canada in 1986 for his involvement in a plot to assassinate an Indian minister.

CSIS Involvement

CSIS is responsible for gathering and analyzing intelligence related to national security threats. The agency was reportedly unaware of Atwal’s presence at the reception and has since launched an investigation into the matter.

Vigneault’s Visits to India

Vigneault’s first visit to India occurred in May 2019, shortly after the Atwal incident. He reportedly met with Indian intelligence officials to gather information about the case. A second visit took place in November 2019, during which Vigneault reportedly discussed the investigations progress and Canadian-Indian cooperation on counterterrorism.

Cooperation Between Agencies

The visits underscore the importance of cooperation between Canadian and Indian intelligence agencies in addressing security threats. The Nijjar case has highlighted the need for improved information sharing and coordination to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Investigation Ongoing

The investigation into the Nijjar case is ongoing, and it remains unclear what actions may be taken against those responsible for allowing Atwal to attend the event. The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for Canadian-Indian relations and the management of intelligence risks.