Australia's foreign minister recently discussed allegations with her Indian counterpart regarding claims that India has targeted Sikh activists in Canada. The Indian government has denied these allegations, stating that they are baseless. The foreign minister emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and respect of all individuals in Australia, regardless of their background.
During a news conference, it was highlighted that Australia respects Canada's judicial process and has conveyed its concerns to India. The principles of the rule of law, independence of the judiciary, and respect for sovereignty were underscored in the discussions between the two countries.
India expressed its displeasure over Canadian allegations and accused Canada of putting Indian diplomats under surveillance, labeling it as unacceptable behavior. The diplomatic tensions escalated further with reports of vandalism at a Hindu temple near Toronto, where clashes erupted between demonstrators supporting the Sikh separatist movement and others.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the violence at the temple, emphasizing the right of every Canadian to practice their faith freely and safely. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also denounced the incident, calling for justice and condemning attempts to intimidate Indian diplomats.
The strained relations between India and Canada have been exacerbated by allegations of Indian government involvement in the assassination of a Sikh activist in Canada. The ongoing accusations have led to the expulsion of diplomats from both countries.
Furthermore, the United States Justice Department has announced criminal charges against an Indian government employee in connection with an alleged plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader in New York City. The individual accused of directing the plot from India faces murder-for-hire charges.
The diplomatic tensions and allegations underscore the complex dynamics at play between India, Canada, and the United States, with concerns raised over the safety and rights of individuals involved in these incidents.
