The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed a document circulating on social media that falsely accuses Indian diplomats of involvement in violent crimes abroad. The ministry clarified that the so-called memo, purportedly marked as a secret government directive, is entirely fabricated.
The MEA’s External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division confirmed that no such communication has been issued by the Government of India. The memo, attributed to former Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra and dated April 2023, falsely claims that Indian diplomats were instructed to collaborate with diaspora groups in Canada against Sikh extremist elements. The ministry reiterated that the document is part of a disinformation campaign designed to mislead the public.
The fake memo’s emergence comes at a time of heightened tension between India and Canada. Diplomatic relations have been strained, particularly following the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a designated terrorist by India, outside a Surrey Gurdwara in June last year. Canada has alleged India’s involvement in Nijjar’s death—an accusation that India has vehemently denied, labelling it politically motivated.
Amidst these strained relations, India has voiced serious concerns over the surveillance of its diplomats in Canada.
During a weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted, “Indian diplomats in Canada are being placed under surveillance, which is totally unacceptable.” He added that, over the past year, Indian officials have faced increasing threats, intimidation, and harassment.
Jaiswal emphasized that India had requested improved security for its diplomats during consular events, but these measures had not been fully provided by Canadian authorities. “Yes, the threats have increased,” he confirmed. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has also raised these concerns with the Canadian government, pressing for better protection.
Tensions further escalated after an attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ontario. India strongly condemned the incident, urging the Canadian government to uphold the rule of law and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. “We call on the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” Jaiswal stated.
These developments highlight the increasingly complex dynamics between India and Canada, marked by allegations, diplomatic strains, and calls for improved security for Indian representatives. The MEA’s strong stance against the fabricated memo and its insistence on protecting its diplomats underscore the growing mistrust between the two nations.
