Canadian MP Chandra Arya has criticised the recent decision for MPs to stand in the House of Commons for a moment of silence marking the anniversary of the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, The Globe and Mail has reported.

Arya voiced discontent with his own government’s stance. He referenced a Globe and Mail investigation revealing Canadian authorities’ concerns about Nijjar’s alleged ties to extremism.

“When Parliament decides to hold a moment of silence, it is very exclusive and limited to a few great Canadians who have immensely served Canadians for most of their lives. Nijjar is not one of these people,” he said in an interview with the newspaper.

Arya also criticised the elevation of Nijjar’s status despite credible allegations linking his killing to a foreign government.

Earlier on June 18, MPs from all parties observed a moment of silence for Nijjar, who was  shot dead outside his gurdwara in Surrey, BC, a year earlier, an incident PM Justin Trudeau linked to “credible allegations” involving the Indian government, leading to strained diplomatic relations.