Australian media questions Canada’s ban on Jaishankar coverage, vows continued reporting on Indian diaspora issues
Australian media outlet The India Today raised concerns on Friday after Canada restricted it from broadcasting a press conference held by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. The press conference took place in Canberra during Jaishankar’s visit to Australia from November 3 to 7, as he met with Wong to discuss mutual interests between the two nations. The restriction on Jaishankar’s coverage has sparked criticism from Australian media, particularly regarding Canada’s decision to limit press access.
In an interview with CNN-News18, Jitarth Jai Bharadwaj, the Editor-in-Chief of The Australia Today, voiced his frustration over Canada’s actions. He questioned why Canadian authorities would target an Australian media outlet when their issues primarily lie with India. “We will continue to report on the issues related to the broader Indian diaspora. If Canada has a problem with India, then why are they targeting us?” Bharadwaj asked. He expressed that this restriction seemed unwarranted, especially given Australia Today’s commitment to reporting on the Indian diaspora worldwide, including in Canada and Australia.
Australia Today has become an important voice for the Indian community in Australia, covering issues related to Indians and other South Asians, highlighting cultural ties, economic contributions, and diplomatic relations. Canada’s move to restrict the broadcast has sparked a broader conversation about media freedom and its role in representing diaspora communities. Australian media have criticized the decision of Canada to block Jaishankar coverage, raising concerns about press freedom and its impact on diaspora reporting.
Bharadwaj also expressed interest in interviewing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to gain insight into his perspective on the Indian diaspora and its growing influence. He stated that The Australia Today remains open to dialogue, stressing its commitment to representing Indian communities and fostering cross-cultural understanding, despite diplomatic tensions between India and Canada.
This tension between the media outlet and Canada follows recent diplomatic strains between India and Canada, primarily surrounding Canada’s stance on issues related to the Indian diaspora and concerns over diplomatic policy. Australian media have expressed concerns over the decision of Canada to restrict Jaishankar coverage, fueling further tensions.
