Relations between Canada and India have been strained in recent months, with accusations and counter-accusations heightening diplomatic tensions. The latest development sees Canada alleging interference by India and Pakistan in its General Elections, a claim promptly rebuffed by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) as “baseless.”
Canada’s Accusations: Canada’s allegations of electoral interference by India and Pakistan surfaced following previous tensions, notably sparked by Canada’s accusation of India’s involvement in the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Now, Canada has leveled fresh claims, asserting that both India and Pakistan interfered in its General Elections. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) released an unclassified summary alleging clandestine activities by the two countries during the 2019 and 2021 elections.
According to CSIS, India targeted electoral districts with significant Indian-origin voters sympathetic to Khalistani movements during the 2021 elections. Meanwhile, Pakistan allegedly engaged in illicit activities in 2019 to manipulate Canada’s political landscape in favor of its own interests.
Indian Response: In response to these accusations, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs swiftly rejected the claims, branding them as unfounded. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India’s non-interference policy in the democratic processes of other nations. Moreover, Jaiswal asserted that Canada, in reality, has been the one meddling in India’s internal affairs.
While Pakistan has yet to address these allegations, India’s stance remains steadfast in refuting the allegations and highlighting Canada’s alleged interference in Indian domestic matters. As tensions persist, diplomatic channels remain open for further dialogue and resolution of the contentious issues between the nations.
