India Rejects Canada’s Foreign Interference Allegations as Baseless
NEW DELHI — India on Thursday rejected allegations by Canada’s intelligence agency linking New Delhi to foreign interference, calling the claims baseless and saying such concerns should be handled through established diplomatic mechanisms rather than public accusations.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the issue during a weekly media briefing in New Delhi after the Canadian Security Intelligence Service raised concerns about foreign interference in Canada.
“India’s position on this particular issue has been clear and consistent and we have spoken about it on several occasions in the past as well. We categorically reject such baseless imputations. India is a democracy that adheres to international norms and respects the sovereignty of other nations. It is not our policy to interfere in issues of other countries. We believe that any concerns of this nature should be addressed through established mechanisms rather than through politicised or public narratives,” Jaiswal said.
The latest CSIS public report said foreign interference in Canadian politics remains aggressive and sophisticated. It identified China, Russia, Iran and Pakistan as major perpetrators, saying they use tactics intended to weaken institutions, influence public discourse and undermine trust in democratic processes.
The report also referred to Canada-based Khalistani extremists, saying their involvement in violent extremist activities continues to pose a national security threat.
Jaiswal said the assessment acknowledged the presence of supporters of the Khalistan separatist movement in Canada and noted that Canada-based Khalistani extremist groups remain a threat not only to India, but also to Canada.
“The CSIS assessment acknowledges the presence of supporters of the Khalistan separatist movement in Canada and notes that Canada-based Khalistani extremist groups continue to pose a national security threat, not only to India but also to Canada. It further highlights that such elements misuse democratic freedoms and institutions to promote extremism and raise funds that are diverted towards violent activities,” Jaiswal said.
He said India has repeatedly urged Canadian authorities to act against what New Delhi describes as anti-India elements operating from Canadian territory.
“India has repeatedly urged the Canadian authorities to take effective action against anti-India elements operating from its soil. This includes addressing the issue of glorification of violence, threats against diplomats and leaders, vandalism of places of worship and attempts to promote secessionism through so-called referendums,” he said. (Source: IANS)
