Thu Nov 07 15:07:22 UTC 2024: ## India Accuses Canada of Hypocrisy After Australian News Outlet Blocked
**New Delhi, India** – India has accused Canada of hypocrisy towards freedom of speech after an Australian news outlet, Australia Today, was blocked in Canada shortly after broadcasting a press conference featuring India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong.
The blocking of Australia Today’s social media handles occurred just hours after the outlet aired the press conference and an interview with Minister Jaishankar, who was on a visit to Australia.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed surprise and concern, stating, “These actions yet again highlight the hypocrisy of Canada towards freedom of speech.”
Jaiswal pointed to recent tensions between India and Canada, including accusations by Canada against India without evidence, the surveillance of Indian diplomats, and the platform given in Canada to anti-India elements.
The incident comes amidst a strained relationship between the two countries, which deteriorated following Canada’s unsubstantiated allegations last year that Indian agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has repeatedly demanded evidence for these claims.
Tensions escalated further last month when India’s High Commissioner was labeled a person of interest in the killing. India dismissed the accusation as ludicrous and retaliated by withdrawing its High Commissioner and expelling six Canadian officials.
India also confirmed the cancellation of consular camps in Toronto due to a lack of security assurance from Canada, following an attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton where a camp was being held.
The blocking of Australia Today in Canada has further exacerbated the already tense relations between the two countries. India has made it clear that it expects Canada to address its concerns and provide evidence to support its accusations.
First Piper 