S Jaishankar’s Statement on attack plot allegations: ‘US, Canada issues not same’

In a diplomatic response to recent allegations concerning plots to murder pro-Khalistan elements in the United States and Canada, India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, emphasized the distinction between the two issues. Speaking at an event in Bengaluru on Sunday, Jaishankar stated that while the concerns raised by the United States and Canada were not necessarily the same, India remains open to addressing specific issues raised by other countries.

Jaishankar highlighted that when the Americans brought up the issue, they provided specific information. In international relations, such challenges can arise, and India has expressed its willingness to examine concerns presented by any country. “If any country, not just Canada, has a concern and gives us some input or some basis for that concern, we are always open to look at it. This is what countries do,” he stated.

The United States recently requested India’s assistance in an investigation into an alleged plot to kill Khalistan separatist Gurpatwant Sing Pannun. An indictment filed by the US Department of Justice accuses Nikhil Gupta, an Indian government employee, of soliciting hitmen to carry out the murder. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern, disassociating itself from the alleged plot and emphasizing that it goes against government policy.

Jaishankar conveyed India’s sincerity in addressing the concerns raised by the United States and assured Canada that it is their choice whether they want India to further investigate the matter. The diplomatic exchange reflects the complexities in international relations and the importance of addressing specific information when dealing with sensitive issues.