India Slams Surveillance of Diplomats in Canada
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has raised strong objections to alleged surveillance of Indian consulate officials in Canada. Reports suggest that private communications of these officials are being intercepted, adding a new layer of complexity to the already strained bilateral ties.
In a statement, the MEA termed the surveillance as a clear violation of international diplomatic norms and an affront to India's sovereignty. "Such actions are not only unwarranted but also counterproductive to the relationship between two democratic nations," an MEA spokesperson remarked.
The situation comes at a time when India and Canada are already at loggerheads over various issues, including accusations by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding India's involvement in the death of a Sikh leader on Canadian soil. India has consistently denied these allegations and criticized Canada for harboring anti-India elements.
Observers view the interception of communications as an escalation that could severely undermine trust between the two nations. "Diplomatic immunity and confidentiality are fundamental principles that must be upheld. Breaching them creates irreparable damage," a senior international relations expert opined.
Indian officials have called upon the Canadian government to clarify its stance and ensure the safety and privacy of its diplomatic staff. Meanwhile, experts suggest that this episode might push India to reassess its engagement with Canada.
As the world watches, the controversy highlights growing challenges in global diplomacy, where trust appears to be increasingly fragile. Whether the two nations can move past this episode remains to be seen.
