Canada Alleges Election Interference: India, China Accused of Meddling

Ottawa (The Uttam Hindu): Canada's intelligence agency, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), has alleged that India and China may interfere in Canada's upcoming general elections. This accusation comes amid deteriorating relations between Canada and both countries. Vanessa Lloyd, CSIS deputy director of operations, stated that some adversaries, including India and China, are increasingly using AI to interfere in elections. Lloyd specifically mentioned that China may use AI-enabled tools to promote narratives that suit its interests, targeting Chinese ethnic, cultural and religious communities in Canada using deceptive means. Lloyd also accused India of having both the intention and the ability to interfere in Canadian communities and democratic processes to establish its geopolitical influence.

This is not the first time Canada has made such allegations against India. In January, India rejected allegations of interference in the Ottawa elections, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stating that Canada's claims were baseless and that India hoped Canada would not support systems enabling illegal migration. The allegations have strained relations between the two countries, with India already expressing concerns about Canada's interference in its internal affairs. The situation remains tense, with both countries maintaining their positions.