EAM Dr Jaishankar slams Canada for targeting Indian diplomats, heres what he said
During an event in Pune on October 26, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke out against the Canadian government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, for allegedly targeting Indian diplomats. Jaishankar addressed accusations that India was involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim Canada has previously alluded to. India, however, has strongly rejected these accusations, with Jaishankar stating that the Canadian government’s approach has compromised diplomatic relations and disregarded India’s prior concerns about organized crime within Canada.
Jaishankar explained that India had raised concerns with Canada about the rising organized crime network within the country, particularly pointing out elements that posed threats to India's national security. Despite these warnings, Jaishankar noted that Canada had created an “enabling environment” where certain criminal networks were overlooked due to internal political dynamics. "Unfortunately," he said, "a small minority has turned into a disproportionately large political force, which Canada’s political system has allowed to influence."
### Escalating Diplomatic Strains
The diplomatic rift between India and Canada has intensified in recent months, particularly as Canadian officials named Sanjay Verma, India’s High Commissioner to Canada, and other diplomats as “persons of interest” in the Nijjar murder case. India responded by recalling Verma and five other diplomats from Canada and expelling six Canadian diplomats from Indian soil, signaling India's strong disapproval of the accusations and the treatment of its officials.
Jaishankar firmly rejected the allegations against Verma, describing them as “ridiculous.” Verma, one of India’s most respected diplomats with over 36 years of distinguished service, has served as ambassador to countries like Japan and Sudan and held key roles in Italy, Turkey, Vietnam, and China. Jaishankar defended Verma’s career, emphasizing his integrity and contributions to India’s diplomatic relations, adding that the Canadian accusations are not only unfounded but also harmful to Canada’s own interests.
### Political Dynamics and Impact on Canada
In his address, Jaishankar suggested that the Canadian government’s response was largely driven by domestic political pressures. He attributed this situation to a “small but vocal minority” in Canada whose political influence has allowed them to amplify issues that challenge India’s sovereignty and unity. “This issue is not just bad for our relations; it is bad for Canada itself,” Jaishankar remarked, warning that enabling such political lobbies could lead to broader implications for Canada’s own security and societal harmony.
He urged Canadian authorities to approach the issue with responsibility and to prioritize a diplomatic and rational approach. Referring to Canada’s treatment of Indian diplomats, he emphasized that “India will not tolerate attacks on its diplomats under any circumstances.” Jaishankar also highlighted that India’s integrity and sovereignty are non-negotiable and that respect for these principles is fundamental to any diplomatic relationship.
### Broader Implications and Path Forward
The diplomatic standoff has raised questions regarding the future of India-Canada relations. Both nations share extensive cultural and economic ties, but the recent strain underscores the challenges posed by geopolitical and domestic influences. Indian officials are reportedly urging Canada to consider the long-term implications of aligning with groups that may disrupt bilateral relations, especially as India’s global influence continues to grow.
Jaishankar’s speech has resonated as a reminder of India’s firm stance on national integrity and diplomatic decorum. As investigations continue, the situation will likely impact diplomatic relations, trade discussions, and possibly the Indian diaspora in Canada. The unfolding tensions call for strategic dialogue to prevent further escalation and to safeguard mutual interests.