India accused Canada of “harassment and intimidation” against its consular staff, claiming they were subjected to audio and video surveillance; India claimed this violated diplomatic norms.

India has formally protested against the Canadian government in response to reports that a large number of Indian diplomats in Canada are under surveillance due to ongoing diplomatic tensions, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a press conference on November 2.

“Recently, some of our consular officials have been informed by the Canadian government that they have been and continue to be under audio and video surveillance. Their communications were also cut off. We view these actions as a clear violation of diplomatic and consular agreements,” Jaiswal said.

He emphasized that Canada’s claims of technical justification do not excuse the harassment and intimidation faced by Indian officials. “Our diplomatic and consular staff operate in an environment already marked by extremism and violence. This action by the Canadian government further aggravates the situation and contradicts established diplomatic practices,” Jaiswal added.

Relations between India and Canada have deteriorated significantly since Prime Minister Trudeau’s allegations in September that India was potentially involved in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has consistently expressed concerns that Canada provides a safe haven for pro-Khalistan groups operating with impunity.

In response, India expelled six Canadian diplomats and recalled high commissioner Sanjay Verma, along with other targeted officials, after vehemently denying Ottawa’s accusations.

Meanwhile, India summoned the representative of the Canadian High Commission and strongly protested against Ottawa’s allegations against Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

“Regarding Canada’s latest target, we summoned the representative of the Canadian High Commission yesterday… The note stated that the Government of India protested in the strongest terms against the absurd and unfounded references made to the Union Minister of Home Affairs of India. “Before the Committee by Deputy Minister David Morrison,” Jaiswal said.