Sanjay Verma, the Indian High Commissioner who was recalled from Ottawa amid significant diplomatic tensions with Canada, shared details of a harrowing experience in which he nearly fell victim to a sword attack by a Khalistani terrorist in Alberta. Speaking to news agency ANI, Verma recounted that he was with his wife at the time of the incident, which occurred when approximately 150 protesters gathered outside the venue.

Describing the protest, Verma noted that the assailant wielded a sword, rather than a 'kirpan,' a traditional Sikh religious symbol. "We Indians, who have an understanding of Sikhism, know the distinction between a sword and a kirpan. This was a sword that came within 2 to 2.5 inches of my body," he revealed.

Verma further explained that local authorities, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the police, were taken aback by the severity of the attack. "The local police responded immediately and managed to push the protesters back. They also conducted interrogations, although I was not informed about the final outcomes," he added.

He emphasized the importance of clarifying the difference between a religious 'kirpan' and a sword to Canada’s Global Affairs department, which had also been notified about the incident. Verma mentioned that Canada expressed concerns regarding the safety of Indian diplomats, which led to enhanced protection from the RCMP.

Reflecting on the ongoing diplomatic standoff between India and Canada, Verma stated, "My primary goal is to see the relationship between the two countries restored." He voiced concerns about the threats posed by Khalistani "goons" to peace-loving Indo-Canadians, who have faced vandalism at their places of worship.

Tensions between India and Canada intensified after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made statements in Parliament regarding "credible allegations" linking India to the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani activist. India dismissed these allegations as "absurd" and "motivated." Following accusations that Verma was involved in the murder, India recalled him and expelled six Canadian diplomats, accusing Canada of "baselessly targeting" Indian officials.