In recent months, India’s offshore activities have sparked international concern, casting a shadow over its reputation as a responsible global actor. The arrest of three Indian nationals in Canada in connection with the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar has brought to light India’s alleged involvement in extraterritorial actions that violate diplomatic norms and international law.
The case, which gained significant attention after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly addressed it, has strained relations between India and Canada. The suspicion of Indian intelligence agencies’ involvement in Nijjar’s murder has not only deepened the diplomatic rift but also raised questions about India’s respect for the sovereignty of other nations.
Similarly, allegations of Indian interference have surfaced in the United States, where the State Department is investigating Indian involvement in two attempted assassinations on dissident Indians. Additionally, Australia has accused India of espionage and coercion of Indian expatriates, further highlighting India’s questionable behavior beyond its borders.
Pakistan has seized upon these incidents to highlight India’s extraterritorial misadventures at the United Nations, emphasizing the need for international condemnation and accountability. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s provocative remarks about “New India” engaging in extraterritorial killings only serve to reinforce concerns about India’s aggressive foreign policy agenda.
The gravity of India’s cross-border activities has prompted Ambassador Munir Akram to draw attention to India’s nefarious behavior not only within its borders but also in other nations. The recent expose by The Washington Post has underscored the urgency of addressing India’s extraterritorial state terrorism, which poses a significant threat to regional and global security.
The issue of India’s cross-border activities has been brought to the forefront of international forums such as the UN General Assembly and Security Council by Pakistan, emphasizing the global implications of India’s actions. Ambassador Munir Akram has shed light on India’s nefarious activities not only within its borders but also in other nations, underscoring the growing international concern over India’s behavior.
Canada’s response to these allegations has been commendable, with the arrest of the three Indian nationals suspected in Nijjar’s murder demonstrating a commitment to upholding the rule of law despite diplomatic tensions. However, India’s belligerent posture towards perceived threats to its interests complicates efforts to hold it accountable for its actions.
The United States, while expressing a willingness to cooperate with India in investigations, must also hold India accountable for any violations of international law. India’s categorical denial of involvement in extraterritorial activities should not absolve it of responsibility, particularly when evidence suggests otherwise.
The need for multilateral cooperation in addressing India’s extraterritorial actions cannot be overstated. Pakistan’s plea for action at the United Nations underscores the urgency of the situation, but it will require concerted global efforts to ensure that India is held accountable and that such violations do not recur.
India’s extraterritorial activities represent a threat to global stability and require a coordinated response from the international community. It is imperative that nations come together to condemn India’s actions and uphold the principles of sovereignty and diplomatic integrity. Failure to do so risks emboldening India and undermining the foundation of international peace and security.
