Canada’s federal commission set to investigate alleged election meddling by India
PTC News Desk: Canada's federal commission of inquiry into foreign interference is reportedly set to investigate allegations of election meddling by India in the country's last two general elections.
In the official statement, the commission disclosed its request to the federal government for documentation related to these claims.
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The commission was set up by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September and was tasked with conducting a public inquiry into foreign interference in Canadian affairs.
The decision to initiate this inquiry came in response to reports of purported Chinese attempts to influence elections and mounting pressure for an inquiry. Beijing has repeatedly denied any interference. It's important to note that Beijing has consistently denied any involvement or interference in Canadian affairs.
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The commission's mandate, outlined in terms of reference published last year, encompasses an assessment of potential interference by various entities, including China, Russia, and other foreign states or non-state actors, in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections.
The statement signals the commission's intention to probe any role India might have played in influencing the two ballots, as per media sources.
The commission's initial hearings, to begin Monday, will look at the challenges and limitations of disclosing classified national security information and intelligence to the public.
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An interim report from the commission is due on May 3, with a final report expected by the end of the year.
In recent months, diplomatic relations between India and Canada strained, primarily due to Canada's allegations linking Indian agents to the murder of separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia last year. Despite Canada making these allegations, India has firmly rejected the accusations.
(With inputs from agencies)
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