New York - Even as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, currently in New York, made his remarks, he highlighted the persistence of "double standards" in today's world. He pointed out that nations in positions of power resist change while those with historical or institutional influence often use these capabilities as tools.
Jaishankar indirectly referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's defense of pro-Khalistan activities in Canada in the name of freedom of speech, stating that many actions are carried out in the name of the market or freedom.
Since the standoff began, at least five senior US officials and diplomats, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, NSA Jake Sullivan, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti, and US Ambassador to Canada David Cohen, have issued public statements. These statements have carried nuanced messages, encouraging cooperation from Delhi while cautioning Ottawa against hasty judgments.
For instance:
On September 19, John Kirby, in an interview with CBS News, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and the need for transparency in the investigation, urging India to cooperate.
On September 20, Eric Garcetti expressed concern about Trudeau's allegations and stressed adherence to international principles during an interactive session.
On September 21, Jake Sullivan voiced the US's support for Canada's investigation and emphasized that no country should receive special treatment for such activities.
On September 22, David Cohen disclosed that shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners had contributed to Canada's claims.
Also on September 22, Antony Blinken stressed the importance of the Canadian investigation proceeding smoothly and called for India's cooperation.
While intelligence sharing between the US and Canada is not surprising, the Indian establishment wants to take a strong stance against Trudeau's support for pro-Khalistan groups. However, it also recognizes the potential impact on people-to-people ties, especially in the realms of students and business, as well as potential consequences for trade, particularly in agriculture, including potash and pulses.
While Trudeau claimed that Canada had shared "credible allegations" regarding Nijjar's killing and urged India to cooperate constructively, Delhi is waiting for the situation to unfold. India has rejected the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated" while accusing Ottawa of not taking action against Khalistan separatists in Canada and not providing specific information about Nijjar's killing.
Simultaneously, India has expressed its willingness to cooperate if specific information is provided.
During his time in New York, Jaishankar is scheduled to meet with US officials and ministers, and candid discussions between New Delhi and Washington are anticipated. NSA Ajit Doval is also reported to be in contact with his US counterpart.
Jaishankar's statements in New York reflect India's perspective, emphasizing the importance of political will to address global issues while acknowledging the resistance from influential nations maintaining the status quo and leveraging their capabilities.
In summary, Jaishankar's remarks shed light on the complex dynamics of global politics amid the ongoing India-Canada situation.