External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during his ongoing visit to Australia, sharply criticized Canada for providing “political space” to extremists, following a violent incident at a Hindu temple in Brampton. Jaishankar’s remarks came during a joint press conference with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong in Canberra.
Temple Attack in Brampton and Growing Concerns
The attack occurred on Sunday at the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton, where pro-Khalistan elements clashed with attendees and disrupted a consular event organized by the Indian Consulate. Jaishankar expressed strong disapproval of Canada’s actions in allowing such extremism to flourish.
Referring to the incident, he stated: “Let me make three comments. One, Canada has developed a pattern of making allegations without providing specifics. Secondly, when we look at Canada, for us, the fact that our diplomats are under surveillance is something which is unacceptable.”
He further pointed to the Brampton incident, adding, “The third is the incident which the gentleman spoke about, do look at the video. I think that will tell in a way the political space which is being given to extremist forces there.”
Canada’s Pattern of Allegations and Diplomatic Tensions
Jaishankar also addressed Canada’s recent allegations regarding the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, noting that the country has repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims without providing clear evidence. This came amid rising tensions over surveillance of Indian diplomats in Canada, which the Indian government has called “unacceptable.”
Penny Wong Expresses Concern for the Indian Community
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, in her remarks, expressed sympathy for the Indian community, calling the incidents “upsetting” and recognizing the emotional impact on those of faith. “About the vandalism that you describe, I know that our local members expressed a very strong view about that, particularly linked to Diwali, which is a very upsetting thing for members of the faith community and the Indian community more broadly,” she said.
India’s Strong Response to the Attack
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly condemned the violent attack at the Hindu temple in Brampton and called for those responsible to be prosecuted. “We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario yesterday. We call on the government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement.
Prime Minister Modi Condemns the Attack
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly attempt to intimidate” Indian diplomats. He urged the Canadian government to ensure justice and take appropriate action against the perpetrators. “I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” PM Modi wrote on social media.
Jaishankar’s Visit to Australia
Jaishankar is on a four-day official visit to Australia, where he has engaged in discussions with senior Australian officials on matters of mutual interest, including regional security and bilateral cooperation. His remarks on Canada have underscored India’s growing concerns about the safety of its diplomats and the increasing political space given to extremist groups in certain foreign nations.
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