In a significant diplomatic move, India summoned a representative of the Canadian High Commission on Saturday, November 2, 2024, to protest allegations made against Union Home Minister Amit Shah by Canadian authorities. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) voiced its strong objections, calling the accusations “absurd and baseless.”
India Rejects Canada’s Allegations
Speaking on the matter, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal condemned the references made to Amit Shah by Canadian Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison during a session of the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security in Ottawa, held on October 29, 2024. “We summoned the representative of the Canadian High Commission yesterday and handed over a diplomatic note regarding the unfounded proceedings,” Jaiswal said.
Allegations Stir Diplomatic Tensions
According to Reuters, Canada has claimed that Amit Shah was allegedly involved in orchestrating “plots to target Sikh separatists on Canadian soil.” During a parliamentary panel session, Morrison further alleged that he had conveyed this information to the Washington Post, stating that “Shah was behind the plots.” This revelation has significantly worsened already strained ties between the two nations.
India Condemns Political Agenda Behind Allegations
Reiterating India’s stance, Jaiswal highlighted what he referred to as ‘political agenda’ behind these accusations. He added that the Indian government has long believed that the current Canadian administration has been pursuing a strategy to discredit India. “The leak of these unfounded insinuations to international media is part of a deliberate effort to influence global opinion against India,” Jaiswal stated.
Impact on Bilateral Relations
The Indian government has issued a stern warning, cautioning that such “irresponsible actions” could have “serious consequences” in relations between two nations. Jaiswal made it clear that India strongly protests these baseless allegations and will not tolerate attempts to undermine its global standing.
US Reacts to Allegations Against Shah
In a related development, the United States has also responded to claims. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller described the allegations as “concerning,” and confirmed that the US government would continue to consult with Canada regarding the issue.
Tensions Continue to Escalate
The diplomatic rift, fueled by claims of interference and targeted plots, continues to dominate headlines. The Indian government remains firm in its rejection of what it calls a politically motivated attack, while Canada maintains its stance, leading to a tense standoff between the two countries.