NEW DELHI: India slammed a recent ABC documentary which claimed to have uncovered details about alleged efforts by Indian officials to silence Sikh critics in Australia, saying it contains blatant untruths, is biased and reflects unprofessional reporting.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in what was the first Indian reaction to the documentary, said it appears to serve a particular agenda to malign India.We obviously oppose any such attempts to condone, justify and even glorify terrorism, he said. The documentary claimed four Indian spies posing as diplomats were also expelled by Australia.
According to the documentary, apart from targeting Sikh separatists, Indian intelligence officers were trying to gain access to sensitive defence technology and airport security protocols. They were targeting former and current politicians as well as a state police service, it said.
The report further confirmed at least four intelligence officers were asked to leave Australia, adding some had been posing as diplomats in India’s high commission. The documentary also quoted an Australian govt spokesperson as saying the govt was deeply concerned about the allegations. Australia values diversity and inclusion, where people should be safe and free to express who they are, including their faith and heritage. We do not tolerate violence or threats of violence, said an official statement.
