New Delhi: In a strong rebuke, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, criticized Canada on Thursday for hosting an event that celebrated the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The event, which has drawn widespread condemnation, sparked outrage in India and raised concerns about the promotion of violence and terrorism.
The event, reportedly held in Canada, was perceived as deeply offensive and insensitive by the Indian government and its citizens. Indira Gandhi, one of India’s most prominent leaders, was tragically assassinated on October 31, 1984, by her Sikh bodyguards in response to her government’s handling of the Operation Blue Star, a military operation aimed at flushing out armed militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
Minister Jaishankar, while addressing the issue, expressed his deep disappointment and condemned the event as an affront to the memory of Indira Gandhi. He emphasized that celebrating acts of violence and terrorism, regardless of their historical context, is unacceptable and undermines the values of peace and democracy that both India and Canada uphold.
Indira Gandhi’s assassination was a significant moment in India’s history, and she is remembered as a leader who made immense contributions to the nation’s progress and development. The event in question stands in stark contrast to the principles of respect, tolerance, and diplomacy that are expected to guide bilateral relations between nations.
Jaishankar further emphasized that such events have the potential to strain the diplomatic ties between India and Canada. While recognizing the importance of freedom of expression, he underscored the need for responsible exercise of this right, particularly when it comes to sensitive historical events.
The Indian government has called upon the Canadian authorities to take appropriate action in response to the event, including an investigation into its organization and those involved. The expectation is that the individuals responsible for hosting the event will be held accountable, and necessary measures will be taken to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future.
India and Canada share strong diplomatic relations and have collaborated on various fronts, including trade, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. It is hoped that the Canadian government will address India’s concerns promptly and work towards reaffirming the shared values of respect, understanding, and cooperation.
As this incident unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining sensitivity and respect for historical events and figures, particularly when they involve violence and tragic loss of life. The global community continues to strive for peace, harmony, and mutual understanding, and it is crucial for all nations to uphold these principles in their actions and engagements.