India cooperating in Nijjar murder probe: Canada's outgoing NSA Jody Thomas

Canada's outgoing national security advisor Jody Thomas has said that India is now cooperating in the murder probe of Khalitani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Speaking to the CTV network on Friday, Thomas said Canada has “made advancements" in its relationship with India, and described the ties between the two nations as an evolution.

“My discussions with my counterpart in India have been fruitful, and I think they’ve moved things forward,” Thomas was quoted as saying.

When she was asked whether Canada’s improved relationship with India was a result of the US indictment, Thomas said “the two are connected for sure.”

“The information that they revealed supported our position and our assertions with India. India is working with us, and my counterpart, in particular, far more closely to resolve this,” said Thomas.

She was referring to the US Department of Justice's indictment alleging an Indian plot targeting another Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on its soil.

Thomas is retiring on Jan. 26 after more than 35 years in public service.

Earlier in December, PM Trudeau had said that he sensed a tonal shift in how India was dealing with the accusations of so-called Indian government agents' involvement in Nijjar's killing. India has resolutely maintained that it was not involved in the plot and slammed Canada for giving refuge to Khalistani extremism on its soil.

(With inputs from agencies)