LAGATAR24 DESK
New Delhi/Ottawa: Canada’s deputy foreign minister, David Morrison, confirmed on Tuesday that he informed The Washington Post of Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s alleged “authorization” of threats and violence against Sikh separatists in Canada. The statement, made while testifying before Canada’s public safety and national security committee, adds a new layer to the diplomatic fallout between India and Canada, which has seen relations deteriorate amid accusations and counterclaims from both sides.
The Indian government has categorically dismissed previous allegations as “baseless” and continues to deny involvement in any actions targeting Khalistani figures in Canada. Morrison’s statements follow The Washington Post’s earlier report that Canadian security agencies possess evidence pointing to an Indian official’s authorization of intelligence operations against Sikh separatists in Canada, with Amit Shah allegedly identified as that official.
Diplomatic Fallout and Canadian Parliamentary Hearings
Morrison’s testimony aligns with a broader inquiry into allegations from Canadian authorities, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), which accuses Indian agents of engaging in criminal activities on Canadian soil. Canadian National Security Adviser Nathalie Drouin also testified, revealing that evidence connecting Indian officials to alleged crimes was presented during her diplomatic meetings.
Drouin, who traveled to Singapore on October 12 to discuss the issue with her Indian counterpart, noted that both sides agreed to address the matter discreetly. “Instead, the government of India chose to not respect our agreement and went public the next day,” Drouin said, referencing India’s subsequent denial of Canada’s claims.
India’s Rebuttal and Stance on Khalistani Support
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently criticized Canada’s alleged leniency towards Khalistani elements, stating that India had raised concerns about organized crime activities tied to Khalistani extremists in Canada long before the recent accusations. Speaking in Pune, Jaishankar defended India’s stance, underscoring “the need for a strong response when our national interest, integrity, and sovereignty are challenged.”
The situation remains tense as both countries hold their respective positions on Khalistani activism and diplomatic engagement, with further hearings and diplomatic measures expected in the coming weeks.
