Diplomatic Double Standards: The India-Canada Conflict Unfolds

India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, has criticized Canada for its double standards amid diplomatic tensions over the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. India expelled several Canadian diplomats following allegations linking Indian officials to the killing, which India strongly denies.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly criticized Canada's approach, labeling it as having 'double standards' amidst fraying India-Canada relations. The diplomatic fallout stems from accusations regarding the death of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil last year.

Jaishankar highlighted how Canadian and Indian diplomats are treated differently, noting that Canadian diplomats allegedly enjoy more freedom in India compared to the restrictions faced by Indian diplomats in Canada. The recent expulsion of Canadian Charge d'Affaires Stewart Wheeler and five other diplomats by New Delhi marked a new low in bilateral ties.

Rejecting Ottawa's allegations linking Indian diplomats to Nijjar's killing, Jaishankar emphasized the inconsistency in Canada's stance on diplomatic matters. He questioned the Canadian government's take on threats to Indian diplomats under the guise of freedom of speech, suggesting a broader issue with some Canadian political elements.

(With inputs from agencies.)