Indian Diplomats in Canada Under Surveillance, Parliament Informed
In a recent statement to Parliament, the Indian government revealed that diplomats at the Indian consulate in Vancouver have been subjected to audio and video surveillance by Canadian authorities. They were also advised that their private communications have been intercepted.
Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, addressed the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing that "respect for each other’s concerns, territorial integrity, and sovereignty are essential for a stable bilateral relationship" between India and Canada.
Responding to inquiries about ongoing surveillance against Indian diplomats in Canada, Mr. Singh confirmed the disturbing news. "Indian consular officials were informed by Canada that they are currently under surveillance and that their private communications have been compromised," he stated.
Following these revelations, the Indian government lodged a formal protest with the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi, describing the actions as serious violations of diplomatic norms. Mr. Singh highlighted that the Indian government has raised its concerns about harassment and intimidation faced by its diplomatic personnel.
He quoted a Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson who asserted that Canada’s actions deteriorate diplomatic relations and contradict established practices. "Our diplomats already work in a challenging environment, and the actions taken by the Canadian government exacerbate the situation," the spokesperson remarked.
Regarding the safety and security of Indian diplomats in Canada, the minister confirmed that the Indian government is actively engaging with Canadian authorities to ensure proper protection for its personnel and properties.
On October 30, the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security released a report flagging India as under threat from state adversaries. In response, the Indian government labeled the report as a continuation of Canada’s negative stance towards India, pointing out that serious allegations have been made without solid evidence.
Further discussing the diplomatic relations, Mr. Singh noted that while Canada has been able to provide security for India’s diplomatic missions, it has recently struggled to ensure that consular staff are protected from secessionist and extremist threats.
With approximately 1.8 million Indo-Canadians residing in Canada, making up about 4.7% of the country’s population, the safety of Indian nationals abroad remains a top priority for India.
Tensions between India and Canada have grown since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of being linked to the assassination of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar last September. India has firmly rejected these claims as "absurd," insisting that Canada’s willingness to harbor pro-Khalistani elements is the central issue in their troubled relations.
