
On October 23, 2024, Indian media continued to report extensively on the murder of Sukhdool Singh, a notorious Canadian gangster whose assassination in Vancouver has reignited diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. Singh, an alleged key figure in the escalating gang violence in Canada, was shot dead in a targeted attack last month. His killing has since been linked to India’s intelligence services, although the Indian government has categorically denied involvement.
Sukhdool Singh, often referred to as ‘Sukha Duneke,’ was a high-profile criminal figure, involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and violent turf wars. His rise to power in Canada’s underworld made him a central player in the ongoing gang violence plaguing cities like Vancouver and Toronto. Singh’s criminal activities often extended back to India, where he was wanted for multiple crimes. Over the years, Canadian authorities had faced challenges in controlling gang-related violence, as tensions between rival factions spilled over into public life.
His murder has become a flashpoint in the already strained relations between Canada and India, following accusations by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau earlier this year of Indian involvement in the killing of another Sikh leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. While Ottawa has not officially blamed India for Singh’s death, the incident has contributed to a growing sense of mistrust between the two nations.
For India, Singh’s death is seen as part of a broader narrative concerning criminals who flee abroad to escape prosecution while continuing to operate illicit businesses. However, India remains cautious in responding to the accusations, focusing on maintaining diplomatic balance with Canada while dealing with its own domestic security concerns.