India Strongly Denies Canadian Commission's Allegations of Foreign Interference in Elections

India has firmly dismissed claims made in a Canadian commission report alleging foreign interference in Canada's elections. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that it rejects any suggestions of India's involvement. Instead, the MEA accused Canada of persistently meddling in India's internal matters, which has reportedly fostered illegal migration and organised crime.

The MEA expressed its concerns about Canada's actions, emphasising that such interference has created an environment conducive to unlawful activities. "We reject the reports insinuations on India and expect that the support system enabling illegal migration will not be further countenanced," the ministry added.

Allegations of Foreign Interference

The allegations against India involve using proxy agents to secretly fund candidates from three political parties during a federal election, as reported by The Globe and Mail. This accusation is part of a broader investigation into foreign interference in Canadian elections.

In September 2023, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed Justice Marie-Josée Hogue to lead an inquiry into these allegations. The commission's mandate includes examining claims of election meddling by countries like China and Russia, as reported by Canadian media.

Previous Findings on Election Meddling

In June 2023, Canada's National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians released a report. It revealed that some parliamentarians were knowingly or unknowingly involved in foreign interference activities. This report highlighted the ongoing concerns about external influences on Canada's democratic processes.

The Indian government remains firm in its stance against the allegations, urging Canada to address its own internal issues rather than pointing fingers. The MEA's statement underscores India's expectation that Canada will cease supporting systems that facilitate illegal migration and related criminal activities.