Amid strained relations between India and Canada, India has made a significant diplomatic move, urging Canada to prevent attacks on places of worship and effectively address hate speech.
These recommendations were presented during the UN Human Rights Council Review meeting, where diplomats from India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka shared their insights and suggestions.
During the UNHRC review meeting, Indian diplomat Mohammed Hussain emphasized the importance of legislative enactments in addressing the issue of attacks on worship places and hate speech.
India recommended that Canada strengthen its domestic framework to prevent the misuse of freedom of expression, particularly for inciting violence.
Additionally, India urged Canada to disallow activities of groups promoting extremism and enhance measures to address hate crimes and hate speech.
These recommendations aim to safeguard places of worship of religious and racial minorities and promote inclusivity in Canadian society.
Bangladesh’s Recommendations
Bangladesh commended Canada’s progress in human rights protection, specifically acknowledging its efforts to combat human trafficking.
However, they recommended that Canada intensify its actions against racism, hate speech, hate crimes, and discrimination against migrants and Muslim minorities.
Bangladesh also called for measures to reduce carbon emissions and urged international cooperation in addressing climate change impacts.
These recommendations highlight the need for Canada to address various forms of discrimination and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
Sri Lanka’s Recommendations
Sri Lanka highlighted Canada’s cooperation with UN Special Rapporters and recommended that Canada accede to the Convention on the Protection of Rights of All Migrant Workers.
They also advocated for measures against racial discrimination affecting immigrants’ rights, countering misinformation against minority communities, and strengthening the national mechanism for reporting and follow-up on international human rights recommendations.
These recommendations aim to ensure the protection of migrants’ rights and combat discrimination in Canada.
Diplomatic Standoff Between India and Canada
The strained relations between India and Canada escalated when Canadian PM Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian agents in the murder of a Sikh Separatist terrorist.
Trudeau’s accusations prompted India to expel a Canadian diplomat and halt visa services to Canada.
In response, Canada removed several diplomats from India. The ongoing diplomatic standoff has created tension between the two countries and resulted in a deterioration of bilateral ties.
Despite the diplomatic standoff, Canada expressed its willingness to work constructively with India and reiterated its commitment to the rule of law.
However, the allegations made by Trudeau have not been substantiated with evidence, according to the Ministry of External Affairs in India.
Both countries have sought parity in diplomatic presence, and discussions are underway to resolve the issue.
India’s recommendations to Canada to safeguard places of worship and address hate speech are crucial steps towards promoting inclusivity and harmony.
The tensions between India and Canada highlight the importance of open dialogue and mutual understanding in resolving diplomatic disputes.
It is essential for both countries to work towards strengthening their bilateral ties and fostering cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.
By taking steps to prevent attacks on places of worship and combat hate speech, Canada can contribute to a more tolerant and inclusive society for all.
