S. Jaishankar slams Canada’s double standards on diplomacy

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts:

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticized Canada’s double standards in diplomatic activities.
Jaishankar highlighted that while Indian diplomats face restrictions in Canada, Canadian diplomats operate freely in India.
India raised concerns about pro-Khalistan elements in Canada, which Canada defends under “freedom of speech.”

Aakhir Tak – In Depth:

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, on Monday, called out Canada for its double standards in diplomatic conduct, amidst growing diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Jaishankar accused Canada of allowing its diplomats to operate freely in India, while restricting Indian diplomats from gathering crucial information in Canada. He was referring to the ongoing row where India’s High Commissioner, Sanjay Kumar Verma, was targeted in the investigation of the Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s murder.

Jaishankar emphasized that while Canada opposes Indian diplomats’ efforts to ensure the safety of their citizens, Canadian diplomats have no problem gathering sensitive information on India’s military and police. These remarks were made during the NDTV World Summit, where Jaishankar strongly criticized Canada’s inconsistent diplomatic behavior. He also pointed out that anti-India elements openly threaten Indian leaders and diplomats in Canada, which Canada defends as “freedom of speech.”

Canada recently accused Indian media outlets of foreign interference, particularly referencing India Today’s 5Live analysis hosted by Senior Executive Editor Shiv Aroor. Jaishankar responded to these allegations, pointing out Canada’s hypocrisy in handling foreign interference. Furthermore, outgoing Indian envoy Sanjay Kumar Verma confirmed that Indian diplomats were monitoring pro-Khalistan and anti-India activities in Canada but did not engage in any covert means.