India-Canada relations: Responding to queries on Friday about the latest developments in criminal cases allegedly involving “Indian citizens/officials in the United States and Canada,” the coalition government said Ottawa had provided “no evidence” to support the “serious allegations” it had chosen to level.
The central government on Friday informed the Lok Sabha when asked whether the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken note of the latest developments in criminal cases allegedly involving Indian citizens in the country.
Kirti Vardhan Singh, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, also said in a written response, “Moreover, its public remarks on this issue appear to be in the service of an anti-Indian separatist agenda.”
“Insisting on such narratives can only be detrimental to any stable bilateral relationship. Therefore, the government has repeatedly urged the Canadian authorities to take action against anti-India elements operating on its soil,” he said.
In his inquiry, MP Manish Tewari asked the federal government whether it was aware of the latest developments in criminal cases allegedly involving “Indian citizens/officials in the United States and Canada” and if so, what could arise from these cases impact on India’s bilateral relations with these countries.
He also asked whether the government had engaged “diplomatically” with the U.S. and Canadian governments to “address concerns” about these cases.
“The government is aware of allegations that Indian nationals have engaged in alleged conduct or intent in the United States and Canada. As part of its ongoing security cooperation with the United States, the United States has shared certain information regarding links between organized groups. A high-level organization established for this purpose The Commission of Inquiry is examining criminals, arms smugglers, terrorists and others who violate India’s national security interests.
In his response, Singh also said that for Canada’s part, “it has provided no evidence to support the serious allegations it has chosen to make.”
“Moreover, his public statements on this issue appear to serve an anti-Indian separatist agenda,” he said.
The minister was also asked about the measures the government has taken or proposes to take to ensure the safety of Indian nationals residing in the United States and Canada, especially given the “potential impact” of these issues.
“The welfare, safety and security of Indian nationals living, working and studying in the United States and Canada remains of paramount importance to the Government of India. Issues faced by Indian nationals in the United States and Canada are raised whenever an issue arises The matter is brought to the attention of the relevant authorities so that prompt remedial measures can be taken,” he said.
(Including PTI input)