New Delhi: In his first public comments regarding the allegations from Canada, India's external affairs minister, Dr S. Jaishankar, clarified India's position.
He said, "This is not the government of India's policy to assassinate people on foreign soil. If Canada has specific and relevant information, we are open to looking at it." These remarks came in response to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's claim that individuals associated with the Indian government were involved in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada on June 18.
Dr Jaishankar also emphasised the importance of understanding the context surrounding these allegations. He mentioned that Canada has been dealing with organised crime, violence, and extremism related to secessionist forces in recent years, and these issues are interconnected.
Regarding cooperation with Canada, Dr Jaishankar stated, "If someone provides us with specific or relevant information, we will certainly examine it, not just limited to Canada."
When asked about potential evidence provided by Canadians, Dr Jaishankar replied, "If we receive specific information, we will certainly consider it." However, he did not confirm having received any intercepted communications from Canada.
Dr Jaishankar expressed India's concern about the environment in Canada, where several terror groups and separatists have found refuge and operate without hindrance. India has shared information about organised crime leadership based in Canada and has numerous extradition requests pending.
He also noted that the permissiveness of this environment has led to threats against Indian diplomats, attacks on consulates, and accusations of interference in Canadian politics.
In response to questions about intelligence sharing and the FBI's warnings to Sikh leaders in the US, Dr Jaishankar clarified that he is not part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance or the FBI.
During his address at the UN General Assembly, Dr Jaishankar emphasised that responses to terrorism, extremism, and violence should not be based on political convenience. He emphasised the importance of respecting territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs, without selectively applying these principles.
