Canada’s main spy agency, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), has accused India and Pakistan of trying to meddle in the country’s last two general elections, according to reports made public last week as part of a federal commission of inquiry.
The allegations against India include attempts to influence the 2019 and 2021 elections through clandestine activities targeting specific electoral districts and politicians. The CSIS report alleged that India used proxy agents to provide illicit financial support to Canadian politicians to align Canada’s positions with India’s interests, particularly regarding the Khalistani separatist cause.
On the other hand, Pakistan was accused of covertly trying to influence federal politics before the 2019 elections to advance Pakistani interests. The CSIS said Pakistan’s interference was primarily aimed at promoting political, security, and economic stability in Pakistan and countering India’s growing global influence.
While India has denied the allegations, tensions between Canada and India have been mounting, especially after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the killing of a Sikh separatist leader last year. The allegations are likely to complicate ties further as India gears up for a national vote.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has not yet responded to the allegations made by the CSIS. Political scientist Reeta Tremblay believes that the allegations are unlikely to affect Canada-Pakistan ties significantly, as Canada has condemned incidents of electoral violence in Pakistan in the past.
In addition to India and Pakistan, the CSIS also concluded that China interfered in the last two Canadian elections, supporting candidates viewed as either ‘pro-PRC’ or ‘neutral’ on issues of interest to the Chinese government. China has denied interfering in Canadian politics.
Overall, the reports highlight the need for Canada to better coordinate key agencies, manage its diaspora, and prevent foreign interference in its electoral processes. With a growing immigrant population, understanding the vulnerabilities of these communities and safeguarding against external influence is crucial for Canada’s democracy.