News Brief
India Protests Canadian Surveillance Of Diplomats: MEA Flags "Violation Of Norms" As Private Communication Intercepted
India-Canada Diplomatic Tensions
Indian consular officials in Vancouver were recently informed by Canadian authorities that they have been, and remain, under "audio and video surveillance," with their "private communications" also being "intercepted," Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh revealed in a written response to the Rajya Sabha on Thursday (28 November)
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Singh underscored that "respect for each other's concerns, territorial integrity, and sovereignty are essential for a stable bilateral relationship." The disclosure came in response to a question regarding cyber surveillance or other forms of monitoring targeting Indian diplomats in Canada.
Singh stated, "The Government of India lodged a strong protest with the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi on this issue vide its note verbale dated 2 November 2024, as these actions were a flagrant violation of all diplomatic provisions."
Quoting an MEA spokesperson’s recent statement, Singh said, "By citing technicalities, the Canadian Government cannot justify the fact that it is indulging in harassment and intimidation. This action of the Canadian Government aggravates the situation and is incompatible with established diplomatic norms and practices."
On steps taken to ensure the safety of Indian diplomats, Singh affirmed, “The Government of India remains continuously engaged with the Canadian side to ensure that adequate protection is offered at all times to our diplomatic personnel and properties."
India has repeatedly urged Canada to take prompt and effective action against anti-India elements operating from its soil. While Canadian authorities have ensured "security protection to our diplomats and diplomatic properties," they have recently "expressed their inability to provide security cover to our consular camps from the violent acts of secessionist and extremist elements," Singh added.
Singh also highlighted the importance of bilateral ties, noting that Canada hosts nearly 1.8 million Indo-Canadians, accounting for 4.7 per cent of its population.
Additionally, Canada is home to another one million non-resident Indians, including approximately 4.27 lakh Indian students, making it one of the largest Indian diaspora communities globally.
The recent developments further strain Indo-Canadian relations, underlining the need for both nations to resolve these diplomatic and security challenges to maintain stability in their bilateral ties.
