India has raised alarm over reports indicating that certain members of the Indian community residing in the Canadian province of British Columbia have received extortion calls. The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, addressed this matter during a media briefing, characterizing it as a “matter of serious concern.”
Responding to questions, Jaiswal acknowledged the gravity of people receiving extortion calls, especially Indian nationals, but clarified that he did not possess precise details regarding the incidents. The revelation comes amid pre-existing strains in India-Canada relations, particularly fueled by allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September.
Trudeau’s accusations suggested a “potential” involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey city. New Delhi dismissed these allegations as “absurd” and “motivated,” accusing Canada of providing a platform for Khalistani extremists targeting India.
The fundamental issue between India and Canada, as emphasized by Indian authorities, revolves around the space afforded to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements within Canada. Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the various issues that need discussion with Canada, including security concerns and investigations into incidents such as the attack on a temple.
Referring to a specific instance where a temple was attacked, Canadian authorities subsequently investigated and issued a statement indicating that the individual responsible was of unsound mind. Jaiswal cited this as an example to underscore the existing issues including extortion requiring attention in India-Canada relations.
Regarding diplomatic developments in the Maldives, Jaiswal responded to inquiries about the new Maldivian president Mohamed Muizzu potentially traveling to China before India, contrary to convention. He asserted that such decisions rest with the Maldives, stating that India does not comment on their choices in international relations.
Addressing concerns about the credibility of Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary elections, Jaiswal maintained that it is an internal matter for Bangladesh to decide. Opposition parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Jamaat-e-Islami, have chosen not to participate in the polls.
In the realm of economic ties, Venezuela has reportedly agreed to supply crude oil to ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL) in exchange for dividends. Jaiswal acknowledged the understanding between the two nations but noted that technicalities still need consideration.
On a different note, when asked about the potential impact of G7 sanctions on Russian diamonds starting January 1 on the Indian diamond industry, Jaiswal acknowledged India’s significant role in the diamond sector. While expressing concerns about the industry, he refrained from providing specific details on the potential consequences.
Finally, in response to the Supreme Court’s order regarding a plea by Nikhil Gupta, accused by US prosecutors of involvement in a conspiracy to kill a Sikh separatist, Jaiswal stated that the order had not been seen, and commenting on it would be unfair without proper examination. The plea for consular access was rejected by the Supreme Court in a case involving Gupta, who is currently in a Czech prison facing charges related to an alleged assassination attempt on Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun as per the accusations by the US.
