NEW DELHI: Tensions between India and Canada continue, with Ottawa listing India among the countries that could potentially interfere in the upcoming Canadian elections scheduled for April 28.
A senior Canadian intelligence official stated on Monday that India possesses both the intent and the means to interfere in Canada’s democratic processes. Canada has previously accused India of meddling in its domestic politics.
Vanessa Lloyd, deputy director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), mentioned that while China is likely to use AI to influence the election campaign, countries like India, Russia, and Pakistan could also be involved in attempts to influence the outcome.
“We have observed that the government of India has both the intent and the capability to interfere in Canadian communities and democratic processes to assert its geopolitical influence,” the official said.
The comments come amid a period of relative calm following a wave of tensions, especially after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of being involved in the murder of Khalistani separatist and Canadian national, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Mark Carney, who replaced Trudeau earlier this month, has called for snap elections to seek a strong mandate while managing a tariff war with the Trump administration, which he described as “the most significant crisis of our lifetimes.”
In response, Carney has shown interest in rebuilding ties with India, a sentiment echoed by the Indian government, which has expressed hope for restoring relations based on mutual trust and sensitivity.
CTV News also reported that the official indicated Pakistan could potentially conduct foreign interference activities against Canada to counter India’s influence and further its strategic goals of political, security, and economic stability.
Reuters noted that the commerce ministry, the Prime Minister’s Office and a government spokesperson did not respond to its email queries on the matter.
