May 10th 2024.
In a recent interview with PTI, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed concerns about the Canadian government's decision to allow political space for Khalistani separatist elements. He stated that this sends a message that Canada's vote bank holds more power than their own rule of law. While India respects freedom of speech, it does not equate to the freedom to threaten foreign diplomats, support separatism, or allow space for those advocating violence.
Jaishankar also questioned how individuals with questionable backgrounds are able to enter and live in Canada, specifically referring to Khalistani supporters among Sikh migrants from Punjab. He emphasized the importance of checking people's backgrounds and verifying the legitimacy of their passports in a rule-based society. Allowing individuals with dubious documents to reside in Canada raises concerns about the country's priorities and values.
The Indian diaspora in Canada is over 1.8 million strong, with an additional one million non-resident Indians residing in the country. This community, largely made up of Sikhs, holds significant influence in Canadian politics. However, ties between India and Canada have been strained due to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations last year about Indian agents being involved in the killing of Nijjar. India rejected these accusations as "absurd" and has consistently raised concerns about Canada's leniency towards pro-Khalistani elements operating from their soil.
Jaishankar stated that it is not a matter of running out of options, but rather the direction of Canadian politics that is causing concern. He pointed out that separatists and extremists, who openly advocate violence, hold positions of prominence in Canadian politics. India cannot overlook this issue for the sake of good relations with Canada.
In response to a question about how India plans to address these challenges, Jaishankar emphasized that India cannot overlook these issues for the sake of good relations. He stated that while Canada may claim to have freedom of speech, it does not mean the freedom to threaten foreign diplomats or engage in activities that harm India's interests. He also raised concerns about the space given to individuals with questionable backgrounds and associations with organized crime.
India has been consistently expressing concerns about the security of its diplomats in Canada and has called for Ottawa to ensure their safety. Some pro-Khalistani elements have even threatened harm to Indian diplomats. Last September, India asked Canada to downsize its diplomatic presence in the country, and Canada subsequently withdrew 41 diplomats and their family members from India.
India's main issue with Canada remains the space given to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements in the country. Recently, three Indian nationals were charged with the murder of Nijjar, and it is reported that they entered Canada on student visas. However, India has not yet received any specific evidence or information from Canada in this case.
In conclusion, Jaishankar reiterated that India continues to remain concerned about the security of its diplomatic representatives in Canada and expects Ottawa to take necessary measures to ensure that they can carry out their responsibilities without fear. These issues cannot be overlooked in the name of maintaining good relations between the two countries.
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