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The Indian government has expressed deep concern over reports of extortion calls targeting members of the Indian community in Canada, signaling a matter of serious apprehension for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). In his inaugural press conference as the MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal addressed queries regarding the distressing trend, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
“People getting extortion calls, especially Indian nationals, is a matter of serious concern,” remarked Jaiswal during the media briefing. The emerging issue has raised alarms within diplomatic circles, prompting a closer examination of the challenges faced by the Indian diaspora in Canada.
Jaiswal also shed light on other recent incidents that have strained the relationship between India and Canada. He mentioned a temple attack that occurred, leading to subsequent investigations by Canadian authorities. The intruder, initially perceived as a potential threat, was later identified as an individual with unsound mental health, a revelation that brought a degree of relief but did little to alleviate broader concerns.
The spokesperson acknowledged the existence of ongoing issues between the two nations, mentioning the core problem of the space afforded to extremists and terrorists. This observation underscores a persistent challenge in the diplomatic relationship, where issues related to security and the well-being of the Indian community abroad remain at the forefront of bilateral discussions.
The reported extortion calls targeting members of the Indo-Canadian community in British Columbia have prompted the Canadian law enforcement to establish a task force to investigate these incidents. According to media reports, nine cases of extortion directed at businesses within the Indo-Canadian community are currently under scrutiny. The formation of a dedicated task force demonstrates the seriousness with which Canadian authorities are approaching the matter and their commitment to addressing the concerns of the affected community.
This development comes at a time when the overall relationship between India and Canada has witnessed a decline. The MEA spokesperson’s acknowledgment of the challenges posed by extremists and terrorists suggests that these factors are contributing to the strained ties. The need for a comprehensive and cooperative approach to counter such threats is evident, as both nations must work together to ensure the safety and security of their citizens.
The situation also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing mechanisms for the protection of the Indian diaspora in Canada. As incidents of extortion and threats continue to emerge, it becomes imperative for both governments to reassess and reinforce measures to safeguard the interests and well-being of their respective communities abroad.
In conclusion, the matter of extortion calls targeting members of the Indian community in Canada has become a focal point of concern for the Indian government. The challenges faced by the Indian diaspora, coupled with broader issues affecting bilateral relations, highlight the need for diplomatic efforts to address security concerns and promote a safe environment for citizens residing abroad. As both nations grapple with these challenges, collaborative initiatives and open communication channels will be essential to foster a sense of security and trust within the Indo-Canadian community.
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