A day after the home ministry reacted sharply to the demeaning language used by Canada against Indian security and defence forces and threatened retaliatory action, the external affairs ministry upped the ante against the country with external affairs minister SM Krishna terming Canada’s response “unacceptable”.
The ministry has summoned the Canadian high commissioner to the South Block twice so far to seek an explanation. “We have made our stand crystal clear. Let us wait for the reaction from Canada,” Krishna said in Bangalore.
“The Canadian high commission’s letters to serving and retired officers of our armed forces are entirely unacceptable and we expect Canadian authorities to address the situation appropriately,” he said, adding India’s institutions work under its constitution and the country was proud of its armed forces.
He said it was up to Canada to explain why its officials have painted the Indian forces as violators of human rights. “There are no major issues between the countries, so this sudden spurt of visa refusals on grounds that security forces indulge in terrorism, espionage and other such activities is shocking,” he said.
While Krishna appears keen to avoid a full-blown diplomatic controversy, the home ministry looked in no mood to relent. “We have written to the external affairs ministry. If the Canadians don’t respond, we will retaliate,” home secretary GK Pillai said on Thursday.
The home ministry wants Canada to withdraw the officer involved in making these allegations from India. Canada also has to apologise. “This is the least that New Delhi wants from friendly Canada,” Pillai said, adding India would wait for a few days before deciding the course of action. He, however, refused to spell out possible retaliatory steps India might take.
Earlier this week, Canada had tried to make amends. “Canada has great respect for India’s armed forces and related institutions,” it had said.
Subsequently, the Canadian mission has not made any comment.
