No proof, only claims: India slams Canada’s anti-India accusations

New Delhi: The Indian government has stated that Canada has provided "no evidence whatsoever" to support the "serious allegations" it has made against India. This statement was made in the Lok Sabha on Friday in response to a query about recent criminal cases allegedly involving Indian citizens in Canada and the United States.  

In a written response, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh remarked, “Canada’s public narrative on this issue appears to serve an anti-India separatist agenda.”

Singh warned that continuing such narratives could harm bilateral relations.  

The Indian government has consistently urged Canadian authorities to take action against anti-India elements operating within their borders, Singh added.  

Bilateral relations under scrutiny  

The query, raised by Congress MP Manish Tewari, questioned the potential impact of these criminal cases on India’s bilateral relations with the US and Canada. He also sought details of any diplomatic engagement by India to address these concerns.  

Responding to the question, Singh said the government is aware of allegations involving Indian nationals in purported acts in both countries. He noted that security cooperation with the US includes examining inputs about links between organised criminals, gun runners, terrorists, and other entities that threaten India’s national security. A High-Level Enquiry Committee has been established to investigate these issues.  

Canada's allegations criticised 

Singh reiterated that Canada has not substantiated its allegations and continues to propagate narratives that align with an anti-India separatist agenda. He underscored that mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is vital for maintaining a stable relationship.  

Ensuring safety of Indian nationals 

The minister also addressed concerns about the safety of Indian nationals in the US and Canada. He assured Parliament that the welfare, safety, and security of Indians living, working, and studying in these countries remain a top priority.  

Issues faced by Indian nationals are promptly brought to the attention of relevant authorities for swift resolution, he added.  

Previously, in a written response to the Rajya Sabha on November 28, Singh emphasised the importance of mutual respect for concerns, territorial integrity, and sovereignty in maintaining stable bilateral relations.  

PTI