<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1711622412966" alt="Germany shifts stance on Kejriwal's arrest after India's diplomatic summons" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Germany has changed its tone following India's summoning of a senior German diplomat over remarks regarding Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest.
A German foreign office spokesperson expressed confidence in India's Constitution, highlighting fundamental human values and democratic freedoms guaranteed by it. The official highlighted the shared democratic values between India and Germany as crucial partners in Asia.
"The Indian constitution – and I can say this from my own perspective as I was posted in India myself – guarantees fundamental human values and freedoms. And we share these democratic values with India as an important partner in Asia," the official said.
The spokesperson acknowledged discussions with India's Ministry of External Affairs, underlining the mutual interest in closer cooperation and the importance of fostering trust between the two nations.
"The topic was discussed with the Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday. Let me emphasise once again that we - India and Germany - have a great interest in closer cooperation and together in an atmosphere of trust," he further added.
The controversy arose after Germany initially commented on Kejriwal's arrest, emphasising the importance of fair and impartial trials, including the presumption of innocence and access to legal avenues.
Sebastian Fischer, a German foreign office spokesperson, on Saturday, had said, "Mr Kejriwal is entitled to a fair and impartial trial, this includes he can make use of all available legal avenues without restrictions. The presumption of innocence is a central element of the rule of law and must apply to him."
India swiftly responded, terming the remarks as undue interference in internal matters and summoning the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy to register an official protest.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs reiterated India's robust democracy and rule of law, emphasising that legal processes would unfold independently, condemning biased assumptions.
This diplomatic episode adds to recent tensions, as India also summoned a senior US diplomat over monitoring Kejriwal's arrest, highlighting international scrutiny on India's legal proceedings.
Kejriwal's arrest, linked to an alleged liquor policy scam, has stirred political turmoil ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, drawing sharp reactions from opposition parties.

Germany shifts stance on Kejriwal's arrest after India's diplomatic summons

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1713962247182" alt="China seeks to deploy security personnel in Pakistan amid rising attacks: Report" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

China has sought permission from Pakistan to station its security personnel within the country due to rising attacks on Chinese nationals, reported Nikkei Asia on Tuesday, citing an opinion piece by Ayesha Siddiqa, a senior fellow with the Department of War Studies at King's College London.
According to Siddiqa, Beijing wants to ensure foolproof security for its 1,200 workers involved in constructing vital infrastructure and educational projects in Pakistan, amid persistent attacks jeopardising the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiatives.
The opinion piece highlighted a suicide bombing that killed three Chinese language teachers at Karachi University in 2022, prompting Islamabad to permit Chinese investigators and pledge enhanced protection for Chinese workers. However, subsequent attacks revealed security lapses, including unsafe transport methods.
The CPEC army division, though led by military officers, mainly comprises civilian police officers with inadequate training, many of whom are engaged in domestic political tasks rather than prioritising the security of Chinese workers.
Recent developments indicate a shift in Pakistan's focus from CPEC and China's projects, with discussions reportedly underway with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund regarding the Reko Diq copper and gold mine. Meanwhile, Gen. Asim Munir, Pakistan's current army chief, has shown a preference for closer ties with the West, leading to promises of support from the U.S. in various sectors.
While China remains pivotal to Pakistan's defence infrastructure, internal shifts suggest a growing inclination to accommodate other foreign investors. This evolving dynamic reflects Pakistan's geopolitical strategy, with officials acknowledging the importance of maintaining ties with both China and the West.

China seeks to deploy security personnel in Pakistan amid rising attacks: Report

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1713866627657" alt="US Human Rights Report highlights abuses in Manipur, media freedom concerns in India" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

The 2023 Human Rights Report from the United States has brought attention to "significant" abuses in Manipur, particularly concerning ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023. Released by the US State Department, the report also addresses other key issues such as raids on the UK-based broadcaster BBC by tax authorities and cases of transnational repression, including the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
While India has not issued a formal response to the report, the External Affairs Ministry has previously criticised such assessments from the US as being based on "misinformation and flawed understanding." Last year, the ministry dismissed the report as containing "motivated and biased commentary by some US officials."
Regarding the situation in Manipur, the report highlights that the ongoing conflict has resulted in at least 175 fatalities and displaced over 60,000 individuals. Ethnic violence between the majority Meiteis residing in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribal community has been a significant source of concern since May last year.
"Activists and journalists reported armed conflict, rapes, and assaults in addition to the destruction of homes, businesses, and places of worship. The government deployed security forces, implemented daily curfews, and internet shutdowns in response to the violence," the report outlines.
Moreover, the report criticises the Indian government's response as being ineffective, with the Supreme Court also noting the failure to effectively address the escalating violence in Manipur.
In addition to addressing the situation in Manipur, the report raises concerns about a "worrying trend" of violence against journalists, unjustified arrests, and the use of criminal libel laws to stifle dissent.
The report also sheds light on the raids conducted at BBC offices by tax officials, mentioning that equipment was seized from journalists not involved in the organisation's financial operations. These actions followed the release of a documentary by the BBC titled "India: The Modi Question," which explored the 2002 Gujarat riots.
Furthermore, the report touches upon human rights abuses in regions affected by terrorism, such as Jammu and Kashmir, and areas impacted by the Maoist insurgency. It also references the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, indicating a potential pattern of extrajudicial actions by state agents.

US Human Rights Report highlights abuses in Manipur, media freedom concerns in India

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1713442028109" alt="Elon Musk's social media platform X addresses disruptions in Pakistan, collaborates with Government" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Elon Musk's social media platform X, which has been facing disruptions in Pakistan since February, has announced that it is actively collaborating with the Pakistani Government to address their concerns, as per a report by Dawn.
The statement was released by X's Global Government Affairs late on Wednesday night, marking its initial response since the disruptions commenced.
"We continue to work with the Pakistani Government to understand their concerns," the post said on X.
As reported by Dawn, access to X has been interrupted since February 17, following allegations by former Rawalpindi commissioner Liaquat Chattha, who accused the chief election commissioner and chief justice of Pakistan of involvement in rigging the February 8 general elections.
The Sindh High Court (SHC) recently instructed the Pakistan Interior Ministry to withdraw its letter regarding the suspension of social media platform 'X' within one week, as per The News International.
Citizens in Pakistan are still encountering difficulties in accessing the social media platform X, with the government having suspended its access since February, citing threats to national security.
During the court proceedings, SHC Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi questioned the efficacy of shutting down insignificant platforms and expressed concerns over the international perception of such actions.
Last month, the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) informed the court that it blocked the social media platform based on directives from the Ministry of Interior and intelligence agencies, as reported by The News International.
The Chief Justice of the SHC emphasised during the hearing that the law does not empower the interior ministry to act solely based on reports forwarded by intelligence agencies.
Reflecting on the suspension of X, the SHC chief justice remarked that no valid justification had been provided for the suspension.
The court has adjourned the hearing until May 9 and instructed the Interior Ministry to present its rationale for blocking the social media platform on the specified date.

Elon Musk's social media platform X addresses disruptions in Pakistan, collaborates with Government

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1713358301196" alt="India-China relations – Navigating a delicate balance amidst geopolitical tensions" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

The dynamic between China and Japan has long been described as a "cold peace," marked by tensions that have led to a significant anti-China sentiment among the Japanese public. This has, in turn, strengthened the Japan-U.S. alliance, a relationship that took on new significance during Prime Minister Kishida Fumio’s recent state visit to the United States on April 10.
In contrast, economic ties between Japan and China remain robust, with Japanese companies relying on China while China sees Japan as a crucial market. However, the situation with India tells a different story. Recent conflicts, notably over territories like Ladakh, Sikkim, and indirectly, Arunachal Pradesh, have escalated tensions between India and China since 2020. This has included fatal clashes between soldiers, extensive military mobilisation, and infrastructure development along the disputed border.
Even routine visits by Indian leaders to areas like Arunachal Pradesh, historically part of India but contested by China, spark strong reactions from Beijing. China consistently asserts its claim over these regions, disregarding historical agreements like the McMahon Line established in 1914.
This has led to a strained relationship best described as a "hot peace" between India and China. Similar to Japan, public sentiment in India has soured towards China, prompting New Delhi to diversify its international partnerships. India has increasingly turned towards the United States, France, and other nations like Israel to modernise its military capabilities, moving away from its traditional reliance on Russian weaponry.
Relations between China and India have maintained a delicate balance, never completely collapsing despite ongoing tensions. India has implemented measures to mitigate risks associated with China, including banning Chinese involvement in ports and rail construction, prohibiting Chinese apps, excluding Chinese telecom companies from Indian procurement, and rejecting significant automobile investments from BYD and Great Wall Motors. However, these actions have not extended to the broader trade and investment aspects of the relationship.
Bilateral trade between the two nations surpassed $136 billion in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, resulting in a substantial and growing trade deficit of $100 billion for India. Interestingly, while Indian exports have declined, China's exports to India have continued to increase. Companies like BYD have found a market in India for products they cannot produce locally.
Indian authorities have indicated openness to Chinese investments, suggesting at the January 2024 Davos summit that this receptivity could grow if border tensions ease. However, the potential long-term benefits for either country remain unclear. Chinese perspectives often depict India as an unwelcoming environment for investment, citing complexities in doing business there. These sentiments are echoed by Chinese experts and publications like the Global Times, framing India as a challenging terrain for foreign investment.
China's assertive actions along three border fronts have prompted India to strengthen its quasi-alliance with the United States and forge a robust strategic partnership with France, particularly evident in reduced conditions on weapon procurement. This shift is not unique to India but reflects a broader trend across Asia influenced by Xi Jinping's China, which appears unfazed by developments like the Quad, AUKUS, or European Indo-Pacific strategies sidelining China.
Xi's strategy seems focused on undermining democratic resolve gradually, prioritising long-term influence over immediate power balances. China's recent 7.2% increase in defence spending, amidst a slower real economy, underscores its commitment to military expansion, evident in its growing naval capabilities and strategic presence in the Indian Ocean and Djibouti.
For India, the border situation poses critical challenges, compounded by China's tactics of creating irreversible facts through deceptive manoeuvres and consolidations. Despite vulnerabilities, especially post-March 2020, India avoided deeper military setbacks, thanks to Xi's calculated restraint, mindful of potential political ramifications for India's leadership.
India's response involves bolstering its defence capabilities through domestic production and Western procurement, alongside maintaining ties with Russia. Foreign Minister Jaishankar's concept of "multi-alignment" reflects this nuanced approach, seeking Western support while keeping avenues open for engagement with Russia and potentially China, if diplomatic opportunities arise.
The evolving India-France relationship, emphasising "strategic autonomy" and equilibrium, aligns with India's diplomatic strategy, navigating regional challenges while preserving historical principles of non-alignment.
Multi-alignment not only safeguards India's influence in the Global South but also highlights nuanced diplomatic strategies amid global conflicts. While many nations view the Russia-Ukraine war as a European affair, garnering direct support over Himalayan border disputes proves challenging for India. Instead, India prioritises strategic partnerships based on tangible agreements, notably engaging in key global issues like Gaza and the Red Sea while distancing from certain vocal allies to preserve autonomy.
The Biden administration's recent declaration supporting India's territorial integrity in Arunachal Pradesh signifies a shift towards collective containment of China's aggression among Asian allies. Despite scepticism about the enduring nature of such statements, this move bolsters India's diplomatic standing amidst regional challenges, especially crucial given the approaching national elections.
India's evolving ties with the European Union reflect shared concerns over economic security, diversification of supply chains, and potential disruptions posed by China's military assertiveness. Converting this shared risk assessment into actionable opportunities remains a pivotal focus in EU-India relations, highlighting the evolving dynamics in global diplomacy amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
In conclusion, the relationship between India and China navigates a delicate balance amidst escalating geopolitical tensions. This "hot peace" characterised by strained sentiments and military posturing has prompted both nations to recalibrate their diplomatic strategies.
While public sentiment in India has turned against China, leading to diversified international partnerships, bilateral trade and investment between the two nations continue to grow despite challenges.
India's multi-alignment approach, bolstered by strategic partnerships with the United States, France, and other allies, aims to safeguard its interests while navigating complex global conflicts. As both nations assert their influence regionally and globally, the evolving dynamics underscore the challenges and opportunities in contemporary international relations.

India-China relations – Navigating a delicate balance amidst geopolitical tensions

Some British cricket enthusiasts are facing disappointment upon realising that possessing a British passport doesn't automatically guarantee unhindered entry into any country due to distinct VISA requirements.
British cricketer Shoaib Bashir, of Pakistani origin, found his entry to India denied as he failed to provide the necessary documents for processing an Indian VISA. India, owing to historical security concerns stemming from the 26/11 attacks orchestrated by David Headley, imposes stringent VISA requirements for individuals with Pakistani ancestry.
While some Brits express surprise and discontent, it's essential to note that this process is not new. Rehan Ahmed, another player in the English Test squad with Pakistani heritage, successfully obtained a VISA by completing the required paperwork. Instances involving Saqib Mahmood in 2019 and Moeen Ali's delayed arrival at the 2022 IPL season highlight the repercussions of neglecting necessary paperwork.
Despite being aware of the additional requirements for individuals of Pakistani origin entering India, some individuals consistently overlook these protocols, only to later express victimhood or display discriminatory behaviour.

The whole Visa issue for England cricket player of Pakistani ancestry

Individuals who are finding it hard to digest the fact that a grand Ram temple has been built in India, may need to brace themselves even more for the upcoming inauguration of another grand temple in a Muslim nation, Abu Dhabi, next month.
 May they find the strength to cope with their feelings, guided by the blessings of Lord Ram.

However, have you ever wondered how this feat is achieved? One of the worlds largest Hindu temple in a Muslim nation?&nbsp;

Brace yourself - Just a thought

Also read/refer my last two discussions on this subject - <a href="https://policharcha.com/discussion/internationalrelations/e9040416-a4f6-413d-857c-e93dc5c07ad1/india-canada-th" target="_blank">Discussion 1</a> and <a href="https://policharcha.com/discussion/internationalrelations/b9e0ee58-b828-4499-afbf-87f3a8b207e0/what-to-make-of" target="_blank">Discussion 2</a>.

So, since I last wrote on this matter many things have happened, and Bharat has gone to full-on offensive mode. Here's how:

<ins>Actions taken by MEA</ins>
<ul>
<li>MEA issues advisory - "In view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating travel are urged to exercise utmost caution. (Notice the language used.)</li>
<li>Indian visa services suspended in Canada</li>
<li>The Indian Government has decided to downsize Canadian Missions &amp; diplomats in India.</li>
<li>The government is also preparing for a large-scale OCI/PIO/Visa Cancellation of Indian Origin Canadian citizens.</li>
<li>Intelligence Agencies have been asked to prepare this massive list and share it with MEA urgently.</li>
<li>MEA says Canada is a safe haven for terrorists, extremists, and organised crime. (Words do matter in geo-politics. Look at this strong worded message. This is the kind of language we use for Pakistan)</li>
</ul>
<ins>Actions taken by security agencies</ins>
<ul>
<li>NIA announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh each for information leading to the arrest of ‘listed terrorist’, namely Harwinder Singh Sandhu/ Rinda, and Lakhbir Singh Sandhu/Landa, for promoting the terror activities of Babbar Khalsa.</li>
<li>NIA released the pictures of 43 accused gang leaders and criminals have Khalistan background.</li>
<li>Police raided more than 1000 locations in Punjab belonging to listed Gangsters.</li>
<li>NIA got active to catch Khalistan terrorists based in not only Canada &amp; Punjab, but also USA by making public photos of 10 terrorist who attacked Indian Consulate recently.</li>
</ul>
<ins>Other things that happened</ins>
<ul>
<li>Gangster Sukhdool Singh, alias Sukha Duneke, was shot dead in Winnipeg, Canada by 'unidentified' assailants</li>
<li>Lawrence Bishnoi gang claims responsibility for Sukhdool Singh's killing in Canada</li>
</ul>
<ins>Actions taken by civil society</ins>
<ul>
<li>Canada based singer Shubh's shows in India got cancelled. Brand endorsements taken away. Celebrities stopped following.</li>
<li>Anand Mahindra's company Mahindra &amp; Mahindra has decided to end its partnership with Canada based company Rayson Aerospace Corporation.</li>
</ul>
<ins>Now let's talk about politics</ins>
<ins>Geo-politics</ins>
Canada sought assistance from its Western allies to corner India, but nothing of that sort happened - more details on this <a href="https://policharcha.com/discussion/internationalrelations/b9e0ee58-b828-4499-afbf-87f3a8b207e0/what-to-make-of" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;
<ins>Indian Politics</ins>
See politics is a game of perception. One action leads multiple reactions and results. Let me explain. The India-Canada row made Khalistan talks more relevant in India. Old videos and connections started coming out on social media for the whole world to see. This led to citizens of India disliking Khalistan even more. Also, some political connections came to light.
<ul>
<li>A video went viral which showed a CNN report claiming ISI links with Nijjar. People started about talking the nexus between ISI and Khalistan.</li>
<li>Former R&amp;AW official, in an interview, told that Congress leader Kamal Nath used to send money to Bhindranwale. In short, Bhindrawale was an asset to Kamal Nath and Congress. This established a connection between Congress and Khalistan.</li>
<li>Perception made - Canada &amp; Khalistan + ISI &amp; Khalistan + Congress &amp; Khalistan = Nexus of Khalistan, ISI, Congress, and Canada. Implication - Advantage BJP.</li>
</ul>
Now I come to the title of this discussion. It was a grave mistake committed by Trudeau to name India in Nijjar's killing, especially if you consider that Trudeau and PM Modi had a conversation about this issue. The point is when they talked about this sensitive issue in private, why did Trudeau went public in accusing India.

Honestly, I believe that this was the slip-up GoI had been waiting to happen. I think the sub-par welcome of Trudeau in the G20 was also planned. PM Modi might have expected something of this sort to happen.

And when it happened, we were ready to pounce.

Now, New Delhi has the license in dealing with these separatists and terrorists in any manner they want.

The seeds of this conflict were sown during the time of farmer's laws protest when Khalistan, backed by Canada and opposition, had an agenda.
However, had the GoI taken any 'hard steps' then, it would have been branded as a Minority Killer. But now, they have a full support, both domestically and internationally, to go after these anti-India forces.

That is why they say, when an idiot is doing stupid things, don’t disturb him.
<a href="/hashtag/GeneralElection2024">#GeneralElection2024</a>&nbsp;

When an idiot is doing stupid things, don’t disturb him | India 3 – 0 Canada

"Pakistan is the only country that is not afraid of India", claims Pakistan's Foreign Secretary, Muhammad Syrus Qazi

On the question of India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani Terrorist Nijjar, Muhammad said, “We are aware of the nature of our eastern neighbours, we know what they are capable of ….. so it is not a surprise for us."

Germany shifts stance on Kejriwal's arrest after India's diplomatic summons

Related Discussion

The whole Visa issue for England cricket player of Pakistani ancestry

Brace yourself - Just a thought

When an idiot is doing stupid things, don’t disturb him | India 3 – 0 Canada

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