India Slams Trudeau Over Alleged Anti-India Actions

New Delhi- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) criticized Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday for failing to act against anti-India elements despite his claims of supporting the 'One India' policy. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Trudeau's words and actions are mismatched, citing the lack of action taken against individuals promoting separatism and the dismemberment of India.

Canada designating India's High Commissioner and other diplomats as "persons of interest" in the investigation into the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar escalated the diplomatic rift between the two nations. In response, India recalled six diplomats, including its High Commissioner, from Canada.

Jaiswal clarified that India withdrew its diplomats before Canada requested their departure, emphasizing concerns over the safety of Indian diplomats. He revealed that Canada had shared intelligence related to Nijjar's killing but failed to provide concrete evidence despite India's request.

Trudeau, while testifying at a Canadian inquiry into foreign interference, admitted that Canada lacked concrete evidence against India. He justified the lack of evidence by stating that Canada shared intelligence with India, emphasizing their willingness to collaborate despite India's insistence on proof.

The MEA, in response to Trudeau's testimony, asserted that his statement confirms India's consistent position. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Canada's failure to present evidence undermines their serious allegations against India and its diplomats. He attributed the damage to bilateral relations solely to Trudeau's "cavalier behaviour."

The relationship between India and Canada has been strained since last year when Trudeau accused India in Parliament of being involved in Nijjar's assassination. India vehemently denied the allegations, deeming them "absurd" and "politically motivated." Canada is harboring extremist and anti-India elements.