Author: Soham Kachdiya

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather alerts for Mumbai and surrounding areas as unpredictable weather patterns continue to affect the region. Here are the latest updates:

Yellow Alert for Mumbai and Suburbs on Thursday:

• IMD has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for Mumbai and its suburbs for Thursday, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds at one or two places.

Yellow Alert for Palghar, Raigad, and Thane:

• Similar ‘yellow’ alerts have been issued for Palghar, Raigad, and Thane for the next two days, raising concerns of adverse weather conditions in these regions.

Orange Alert in Ratnagiri:

• An ‘orange’ alert has been issued for Ratnagiri, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, urging residents to stay cautious.

Flight Delays at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport:

• On Wednesday, continuous rainfall led to delays in flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. IndiGo attributed these delays to “bad weather” and “weather and air traffic congestion.”

Monsoon Revival and Meteorological Factors:

• Mumbai has experienced consistent rainfall this month following a break in August attributed to the El Nino effect. Meteorologists suggest that a convergence of various meteorological factors has contributed to this monsoon revival.

Upcoming Weather Forecast for Friday and the Weekend:

• For Friday, IMD forecasts “moderate to heavy rain or thundershowers” in most places in South Konkan Goa and South Madhya Maharashtra, with “light to moderate rain or thundershowers” in North Konkan and a few places in North Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada.
• Over the weekend, moderate to heavy rain or thundershowers are expected in most places in South Konkan Goa and many places in South Madhya Maharashtra, with similar conditions anticipated in North Konkan. In addition, light to moderate rain or thundershowers are expected in most places in North Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada.

Conclusion:
Residents of Mumbai and surrounding areas are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for varying weather conditions, as IMD continues to monitor and update forecasts.

Summary:

• IMD issues ‘yellow’ alert for Mumbai, Palghar, Raigad, and Thane, warning of thunderstorms and gusty winds.
• An ‘orange’ alert is issued for Ratnagiri due to heavy rainfall predictions.
• Flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport affected by continuous rainfall.
• Monsoon revival in Mumbai attributed to a combination of meteorological factors.
• IMD forecasts varying rain patterns for different parts of Maharashtra over the next few days.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the birth anniversary of the legendary freedom fighter, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, by paying heartfelt tributes to his enduring legacy. In a video message shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Modi hailed Bhagat Singh as a symbol of unwavering courage and a beacon of inspiration in India’s relentless pursuit of justice and liberty.

Modi expressed, “Remembering Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. His sacrifice and unwavering dedication to the cause of India’s freedom continue to inspire generations.”

Prominent Leaders Join in Paying Homage

Leaders from across the political spectrum joined Prime Minister Modi in honoring Bhagat Singh’s memory. Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convenor, [Name], called upon the nation to work collectively towards realizing the dreams of Bhagat Singh, envisioning India as the world’s foremost nation.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann evoked the indomitable spirit of Bhagat Singh, emphasizing that his ideals and revolutionary fervor would forever remain ingrained in the hearts and minds of the people.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to Bhagat Singh’s unparalleled dedication and sacrifice for the country, underscoring how his legacy continues to inspire each generation.

A Life Committed to Freedom

Born on September 28, 1907, in Banga, Punjab, Bhagat Singh’s early exposure to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre instilled in him a profound determination to free India from British colonial rule. At the tender age of 12, he took a solemn oath to dedicate his life to this noble cause.

In 1931, at the age of 23, Bhagat Singh was sentenced to death by the British government in the Lahore conspiracy case. Alongside fellow revolutionaries Sukhdev and Rajguru, he sought retribution for the brutal beating and death of Lala Lajpat Rai, ultimately targeting police officer John P. Saunders.

Their executions on March 23, 1931, prior to their scheduled trial on March 24, sent shockwaves across the nation and left an enduring void in the hearts of the people.

Calls for Bharat Ratna Honor

In a move to honor the legacies of iconic freedom fighters, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had previously advocated for conferring the prestigious Bharat Ratna award upon Bhagat Singh, Udham Singh, and Kartar Singh Sarabha. He believed that recognizing their supreme sacrifices in liberating the nation from British rule would elevate the significance of the award.

The profound influence of Bhagat Singh’s commitment to India’s freedom struggle endures to this day, as the nation celebrates his birth anniversary with reverence and gratitude.

News Summary:

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh, lauding his enduring dedication to India’s freedom.
• Leaders from various political backgrounds, including Delhi Chief Minister [Name] and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, paid homage to Bhagat Singh, emphasizing his everlasting impact.
• Bhagat Singh, born in 1907, dedicated his life to India’s freedom struggle and was executed by the British government at the age of 23.
• His commitment to the cause continues to inspire generations, and there are calls to posthumously award him the Bharat Ratna.
• Bhagat Singh’s legacy remains an integral part of India’s history, reminding the nation of the sacrifices made in its quest for independence.

BJP President JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a late-night strategy meeting in Jaipur to deliberate on the party’s approach for the forthcoming Rajasthan assembly elections. The meeting, which commenced at a Jaipur hotel on Wednesday evening and extended into the early hours, marked a significant milestone in the party’s election preparations.

In a significant development, the BJP has resolved to field Union Ministers and Members of Parliament on challenging electoral battlegrounds, indicating their commitment to securing victory in the polls.

The meeting follows the party’s announcement of three Union ministers and four MPs as candidates in the second list for the poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, underlining the BJP’s dedication to putting forward strong contenders in crucial constituencies.

Sources within the BJP’s Rajasthan unit have hinted at the possibility of Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat contesting in the assembly elections, alongside other Members of Parliament.

One of the most noteworthy decisions to emerge from the meeting was the party’s choice to forgo projecting a Chief Ministerial face during the campaign. Instead, the BJP aims to adopt a collective leadership approach, emphasizing the party’s interests over individual ambitions and rivalries.

The move is strategically aimed at preventing conflicts among regional leaders and reinforcing the party’s core principle of “party above individual.”

Prominent leaders who could potentially assume the role of Rajasthan Chief Minister if the BJP secures victory include Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena, and Lok Sabha MPs Diya Kumar and Sukhveer Singh Jaunpuria.

Surprisingly, Vasundhara Raje, a two-term Chief Minister and a member of the Scindia royal family, has not been projected as the presumptive Chief Minister, despite being widely regarded as the BJP’s most influential leader in the state.

As the election season gathers momentum, the BJP’s strategic decisions are poised to shape the political landscape in Rajasthan and impact the forthcoming assembly polls.

News Summary:

• BJP President JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah held an extensive meeting in Jaipur to formulate the party’s strategy for the upcoming Rajasthan assembly elections.
• The BJP plans to field Union Ministers and Members of Parliament on challenging seats, showcasing their determination to secure victory.
• Notably, the party has decided not to project a Chief Ministerial candidate during the campaign, opting for a collective leadership approach to mitigate rivalries and reinforce the principle of “party above individual.”
• Potential Chief Ministerial candidates if the BJP wins include Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena, and Lok Sabha MPs Diya Kumar and Sukhveer Singh Jaunpuria.
• Vasundhara Raje, a prominent BJP leader in Rajasthan, has not been projected as the presumptive Chief Minister, despite her significant influence in the state.
• These strategic decisions are expected to shape the political landscape in Rajasthan as the assembly polls approach.

India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, addressed the state of India-China relations during a conversation at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) on Tuesday, highlighting the strained ties since the 2020 Galwan clashes. In a moderated discussion by former US Ambassador to India, Kenneth Juster, Jaishankar emphasized the challenges faced in normalizing relations with China due to broken agreements.

“It is very hard to try to be normal with a country which has broken agreements… So if you look at the last three years, it’s a very abnormal state,” said Jaishankar.

The minister’s comments shed light on the ongoing tensions between the two nations, which have significant global repercussions. He pointed out that the heightened military tension and broken agreements have disrupted diplomatic contacts and visits, impacting the perception of China in India.

“If the two biggest countries of the world have that degree of tension between them, it has consequences for everybody else,” Jaishankar remarked.

Reflecting on the historical context of India-China relations, Jaishankar acknowledged the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. He recounted the mobilization of Indian forces in response to a large buildup of Chinese troops near the Line of Actual Control and the subsequent escalation in June 2020. He also noted the changing explanations provided by China regarding the border situation.

Regarding the recent India-Canada row concerning allegations of Indian government involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Jaishankar asserted that it was not the policy of the Indian government and expressed a willingness to examine specific information on the matter.

On the issue of violence against women in Manipur, Jaishankar acknowledged the complex dynamics, including the destabilizing impact of migrants and historical tensions. He highlighted efforts by the state and central governments to restore normalcy and enhance law enforcement in the region.

At the 78th UN General Assembly, Jaishankar praised India’s G20 presidency, emphasizing India’s commitment to cooperation with diverse partners. He mentioned India’s evolving role from non-alignment to becoming a “friend to the world” and highlighted India’s initiative to admit the African Union as a permanent member of the G20.

Responding to criticism from Sweden’s V-Dem Institute and the US government-funded NGO Freedom House on India’s freedom and democracy, Jaishankar stated, “I think it says very clearly that the people who are writing these reports have a strong bias, often they distort facts. Many of these reports are actually riddled with inaccuracies.”

In conclusion, India’s External Affairs Minister underscored the abnormal state of relations with China, the government’s stance on the India-Canada row, and the efforts to address challenges in Manipur. He also highlighted India’s evolving global role and criticized reports critical of India’s democracy.

News Summary:

• India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, characterized relations with China as “abnormal” since the 2020 Galwan clashes during a discussion at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR).
• Jaishankar highlighted the impact of broken agreements on diplomatic relations and the perception of China in India.
• He recounted the historical context of tensions between India and China, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Jaishankar addressed the India-Canada row, emphasizing it was not the Indian government’s policy to be involved in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
• On the issue of violence in Manipur, he acknowledged the complex factors involved and efforts to restore normalcy.
• At the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar praised India’s G20 presidency and its evolving role as a “friend to the world.”
• He criticized reports by Sweden’s V-Dem Institute and Freedom House, suggesting they were biased and inaccurate.

Canadian authorities are facing a growing challenge as pro-Khalistan extremists are enticing vulnerable Sikh youth from Punjab to immigrate to North America, offering sponsorship for visas while clandestinely advancing their separatist agenda within Canadian territory, according to sources reported by PTI.

Exploiting Sikh Youth for a Hidden Agenda

The sources revealed that individuals like Hardeep Singh Nijjar, whose killing sparked a diplomatic row between India and Canada, along with Moninder Singh Bual, Parminder Pangli, and Bhagat Singh Brar, have been instrumental in recruiting Sikh youth to promote Khalistan’s cause in Canada.

These extremists have adopted a strategic approach, sponsoring visas for young Punjabis and guiding them into medium-skilled positions such as plumbers, truck drivers, or religious roles in gurdwaras (Sikh temples) under their control, such as ‘Sewadars,’ ‘Pathis,’ and ‘Ragis.’

“Pro-Khalistan extremists sponsor visas of such Punjabi youth and visits to Canada in lieu of exploiting them for doing pro-Khalistan activities in Canada like participating in anti-India protests and conducting radical-religious congregations,” the sources told PTI.

Exploitation of Vulnerable Individuals

Many Indian youth and students in Canada who struggle financially have become easy prey for these extremists. They offer shelter, low-paying jobs, and support using gurdwara resources. Those in dire straits become indebted to their sponsors and are subsequently drawn into the pro-Khalistan movement in Canada.

“When ISI-backed Khalistani group ‘Sikhs For Justice’ was finding it difficult to get support for its anti-India campaign ‘Punjab Independence Referendum,’ Nijjar and his friends used these ‘foot soldiers’ to give the impression that their campaign was successful,” the sources revealed.

A Network of Influence

These pro-Khalistan extremists now control over 30 gurdwaras in cities like Surrey, Brampton, and Edmonton, providing them with a vast network of influence and recruitment potential.

Nijjar, Bual, and Brar have allegedly formed an “unholy nexus” with gangsters in Punjab, facilitating their relocation to Canada in exchange for the use of their operatives in Punjab for potential terror attacks.

Exploiting Asylum Loopholes

Additionally, some pro-Khalistan political parties in India reportedly charged young individuals one to two lakh rupees for providing a ‘letter’ claiming persecution in India on religious grounds. This letter was then used to seek political asylum in Canada, further fueling the pro-Khalistan cause.

Human Trafficking Under the Radar

Despite its sensitivity to human trafficking, the “human trafficking” channel run by pro-Khalistan extremists appears to remain undisrupted within Canada, raising concerns about the effectiveness of Canadian agencies in addressing this issue.

Diplomatic Tensions

The dispute between India and Canada escalated when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of possible involvement in Nijjar’s killing in June. India vehemently denied these claims, labeling them as “unfounded” and “driven by ulterior motives.” The diplomatic rift led to the expulsion of officials from both countries.

In summary: Pro-Khalistan extremists exploit vulnerable Sikh youth by sponsoring their visas and then coercing them into advancing their separatist agenda within Canada. This issue has raised concerns about Canada’s ability to combat human trafficking and its impact on diplomatic relations between India and Canada.

An angry mob in Thoubal district, Manipur, set fire to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) mandal office on Wednesday, as protests escalated over the alleged kidnapping and murder of two students in the state. The demonstrators also vandalized the office gate, shattered windows, and damaged a parked vehicle, according to reports by India Today.

The violent protests continued for the second consecutive day in Imphal, as Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured Chief Minister N Biren Singh of swift action against those responsible for the tragic incident.

Meanwhile, the government extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) by an additional six months in Manipur, with the exception of 19 police stations in the Imphal valley and a bordering area with Assam.

Curfew Reimposed as Protests Persist

Curfew was reimposed in East and West Imphal districts as the state government grappled with ongoing violent protests that have left 65 demonstrators injured over the past two days.

Chief Minister Vows “Maximum Punishment”

Manipur’s Chief Minister N Biren Singh strongly condemned the alleged kidnapping and killing of the two students and promised “maximum punishment” for the culprits. He stated, “A sad incident took place, where a Meitei girl and a boy were missing from July 3. We tried to trace them and finally handed over the case to CBI on August 28.”

Singh continued, “This is a sad incident, and it is highly condemnable that what the Kuki militants have done is the highest level of crime. Union Minister Amit Shah called me yesterday and ensured that he is sending a CBI team along with the Special Director. They have arrived here in the afternoon today. I want to promise to the people of Manipur that we will ensure the culprit is given maximum punishment.”

CBI Investigation Begins

A CBI team, led by the agency’s Special Director Ajay Bhatnagar, arrived in Imphal to investigate the alleged “kidnapping and killing” of the two students. The incident dates back to July 6 when the youths reportedly went missing.

Ethnic Violence Grips Manipur

The recent wave of violence in Manipur has claimed more than 180 lives and left several hundred injured. It erupted on May 3 during a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ in the hill districts, protesting against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status.

• Summary:
  • Angry mob burns down BJP office in Manipur‘s Thoubal district during protests.
  • Protests ignited by alleged kidnapping and murder of two students.
  • Violent demonstrations continue in Imphal as Union Home Minister promises swift action.
  • Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act extended in Manipur, with exceptions.
  • Curfew reimposed in East and West Imphal districts.
  • Chief Minister vows “maximum punishment” for the culprits.
  • CBI team arrives to investigate the case.
  • Ethnic violence in Manipur has claimed over 180 lives since May 3.

Indian Member of Parliament (MP) Priyanka Chaturvedi has called for an official investigation into the visit of US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar to Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in 2022. Chaturvedi’s statement comes in response to Omar’s recent remarks concerning India’s alleged involvement in the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.

Ilhan Omar, known for her critical stance on India-related issues, voiced her support for a Canadian investigation into India’s alleged role in Nijjar’s killing. She also requested a briefing on whether similar operations were conducted in the United States.

In a strong retort, Chaturvedi took to Twitter, stating, “Sit down Madam Representative. Such being the case, as an Indian Parliamentarian, I urge @MEAIndia to start an enquiry into how an elected representative in the USA is interfering in the peace of Jammu & Kashmir via a Pakistan-funded PoK visit.”

Chaturvedi’s call for an investigation is based on the revelation that Ilhan Omar’s 2022 visit to Pakistan, which included meetings with Pakistani politicians Shehbaz Sharif and Imran Khan, as well as a visit to Muzaffarabad in PoK, was sponsored by the Pakistani government. This sponsorship reportedly covered her lodging and food expenses during the trip. The visit was widely criticized by India, which labeled it as “narrow-minded politics.”

Moreover, Ilhan Omar was among those who boycotted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech during his historic state visit to the United States.

The controversy surrounding Ilhan Omar’s visit is not the only diplomatic issue stirring tensions. Recently, US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome made a private visit to Gilgit Baltistan in PoK, sparking fresh concerns. In response to this visit, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti drew a comparison with American delegates visiting Kashmir during G20 meetings.

Amidst the India-Canada row triggered by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations of Indian involvement in Nijjar’s killing, the United States has called for a thorough investigation and urged India to cooperate. India, however, has firmly rejected these allegations and maintained that no specific information was shared by the Canadian government regarding the case.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, scheduled to meet with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, reiterated India’s stance, emphasizing that the allegations did not align with India’s policies.

News Summary:

• Indian MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has called for an investigation into US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s visit to Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in 2022, which was reportedly sponsored by the Pakistani government.
• Chaturvedi’s call for an investigation comes in response to Omar’s comments supporting a Canadian investigation into India’s alleged role in the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
• The controversy surrounding Omar’s visit adds to diplomatic tensions amidst the India-Canada row over Nijjar’s killing, with the United States urging a probe while India firmly rejects the allegations.
• In addition, recent private visits by US ambassadors to Pakistan’s PoK and American delegates visiting Kashmir during G20 meetings have further escalated diplomatic concerns.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the 20th anniversary of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit on Wednesday, shedding light on the challenges faced during the event’s inception. PM Modi revealed that the central government had initially refrained from extending cooperation, with central ministers even refusing to attend the summit. Foreign investors were reportedly discouraged from investing in Gujarat, yet the state’s good governance and transparent policies attracted them regardless.

PM Modi’s Accusation: A Lack of Cooperation PM Modi recalled the early years of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, emphasizing the central government’s reluctance to support the event. He remarked, “The central ministers used to tell me that they would definitely come. Pata nahi peeche se danda chalta tha, vo mana kar dete the.” He further alleged that the central government consistently created roadblocks for the state’s development.

Investor Confidence Despite Challenges Despite the initial resistance, Gujarat managed to attract investors solely due to its reputation for good governance, fair practices, equal growth distribution, and transparency. PM Modi praised the investors for their trust and determination in Gujarat’s potential.

Resilience in the Face of Global Slowdown In 2009, PM Modi faced pressure to cancel the Vibrant Gujarat Summit due to a global economic slowdown. However, he firmly refused, asserting that even if the event did not achieve its desired success, continuity was vital. He reaffirmed the summit’s national scope, welcoming participants from all states.

Gujarat’s Transformation PM Modi highlighted Gujarat’s transformation from a traditional traders’ state to a multifaceted hub encompassing agriculture, finance, industry, and manufacturing. The state’s economic prowess expanded while maintaining its legacy as a trading center.

20 Years of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit Initiated by Narendra Modi in 2003 during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit has evolved over two decades. This year marks its 20th anniversary, and PM Modi inaugurated the celebration. The 10th edition of the summit, themed “Gateway to the Future,” is scheduled to take place in Gandhinagar from January 10 to 12 next year.

Summary:

• PM Modi reflects on 20 years of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, highlighting initial central government resistance.
• Central ministers refused to attend the event, and foreign investors were discouraged.
• Despite challenges, investors were attracted by Gujarat’s good governance and transparent policies.
• PM Modi resisted pressure to cancel the summit during the 2009 global economic slowdown.
• Gujarat transformed into an agricultural, financial, industrial, and manufacturing hub while maintaining its trading legacy.
• The 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit is set for January 10-12, 2024, with the theme “Gateway to the Future.”

In a surprise early morning operation today, Sukhpal Singh Khaira, a prominent Congress leader and Bolath MLA, was arrested by Punjab police at his Sector 5 residence in Chandigarh. Sources reveal that his arrest is linked to an old case registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Jalalabad, Fazilka.

Arrest Sparks Political Controversy

A team of Fazilka police, led by a Superintendent of Police (SP)-rank officer, arrived at Khaira’s residence to carry out the arrest, prompting a heated confrontation between Khaira and the police personnel.

Demand for Arrest Warrants and Identity Disclosure

Khaira was seen arguing vociferously with the police personnel, demanding to see his arrest warrants. He also raised concerns about the identity of some officers who were in plain clothes. In response, a police officer identified as DSP Jalalabad, Acchru Ram Sharma, disclosed his identity and explained the nature of the case.

Khaira’s Claims and Supreme Court Reference

During the confrontation, Khaira claimed that the case against him had already been quashed by the Supreme Court, adding that his arrest was politically motivated. He expressed his displeasure with what he called “highhandedness by the state government.”

This incident unfolded on a Facebook live video stream by Khaira, where he accused the authorities of arresting him to settle political scores.

Political Tensions Rise

Khaira’s arrest has heightened political tensions in Punjab, with his party, the Congress, alleging political vendetta by the ruling government. The incident is expected to have a significant impact on the political landscape in the state.

In Summary

• Sukhpal Singh Khaira, Congress MLA, was arrested by Punjab police in connection with an old NDPS case.
• Khaira demanded to see his arrest warrants and asked plain-clothed police officers to identify themselves.
• DSP Jalalabad, Acchru Ram Sharma, identified himself and explained the case.
• Khaira claimed that the case had already been quashed by the Supreme Court.
• The arrest has led to political controversy and tensions in Punjab.

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, is set to meet with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, as diplomatic tensions between India and Canada escalate following the killing of a Khalistani separatist. The meeting, although pre-scheduled, is expected to address this latest diplomatic dispute, which has strained relations between two traditional American allies.

State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated, “We’ve raised this; we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this and encouraged them to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and we continue to encourage them to cooperate.”

Background: The diplomatic crisis emerged after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that the Indian government was involved in the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, aged 45, outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020, and in response, India labeled the allegations as “absurd” and “motivated.” Furthermore, India expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat action to Ottawa’s expulsion of an Indian official. India also demanded that Canada take action against terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians.

Meeting Agenda: While the meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken was planned before the Canadian crisis, the US has been urging India to cooperate in the Canadian investigation into Nijjar’s killing. The two leaders are expected to engage in discussions, though no questions from the media are expected to be entertained.

Quoting Miller: “The issue did not come up for discussion in New York during the Quad ministerial that involved foreign ministers of the US, India, Japan, and Australia. But we have engaged with our Indian counterparts on this issue and urged them to fully cooperate with the Canadian investigation,” said Miller.

Jaishankar’s Schedule: Jaishankar arrived in Washington, D.C., from New York after participating in the annual General Assembly meetings of the United Nations. In addition to his meeting with Blinken, the external affairs minister is expected to hold discussions with senior officials of the Biden administration. They will review the progress made between the two nations following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic state visit to the US in June. Discussions will also encompass various regional and global issues.

Engaging with the Diaspora and Corporations: The minister’s itinerary includes engagements with the diaspora, the think-tank community, and interactions with leaders from the corporate sector, indicating a comprehensive diplomatic mission during his visit to the United States.

Summary:

• India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss escalating diplomatic tensions with Canada.
• The meeting comes after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian government involvement in the killing of a Sikh separatist, a claim India strongly denies.
• The US has been encouraging India to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, and discussions are expected to address this issue.
• Jaishankar will also engage with senior officials of the Biden administration and discuss regional and global matters.
• Additionally, the minister plans to interact with the diaspora, think tanks, and corporate leaders during his visit to the United States.