Space given to terrorists core issue with Canada: India
The News Freedom
New Delhi, December 21
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) addressed the ongoing situation concerning Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national currently in the custody of Czech authorities pending extradition to the United States. “This case is a legal matter. An Indian national is in the custody of Czech authorities, and the request for his extradition to the United States is pending in their system,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, said.
Gupta was arrested in the Czech Republic in June for allegedly planning to murder a Khalistani terrorist and US citizen Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Regarding consular assistance, the spokesperson highlighted, “We have been granted consular access on at least three occasions and are providing the necessary assistance as requested. “The matter in the Supreme Court is currently sub-judice, and therefore, it would not be appropriate to comments,” he said during the weekly briefing to media.
MEA spokesperson Bagchi also reiterated India’s ongoing concern regarding the allowance of space for separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements within Canada. Bagchi’s remarks come in response to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement suggesting a potential “tonal shift” in India-Canada relations.
“The core issue remains the space provided to extremists, terrorists, and anti-India elements in that country. Our stance on this problem has been consistent. We hope for action against such extremist elements misusing the freedom of speech and expression in Canada,” he said.
“We have highlighted our perspective on the matter. If there are specific concerns, we will address them accordingly,” Bagchi said.