Canada Blocks Jaishankar’s Press Conference, Sparks Criticism from Australian News Outlet
In a surprising move, the Canadian government blocked an Australian news outlet from airing a press conference featuring India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, where he addressed the ongoing India-Canada tensions. The press conference also included Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong.
The news outlet, The Australia Today, expressed disappointment, calling the restriction a blow to free and open journalism. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the outlet thanked supporters who stood by them and criticized Canada’s actions, which they described as hypocritical regarding freedom of speech.
Jaishankar, speaking from Canberra, highlighted concerns over Canada’s accusations against India related to the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. He criticized Canada for making unsubstantiated claims and surveilling Indian diplomats. The Ministry of External Affairs also condemned the Canadian move, calling it “strange” and a further demonstration of Canada’s double standards on free speech.
The incident has drawn significant attention to press freedom, with many supporting The Australia Today in their call for access to diverse perspectives.