Spark News India Igniting Minds Daily
Recent reports in the US and Australian media detailing alleged espionage activities by Indian “intelligence officials” abroad have stirred unease within the Indian establishment. Sources in New Delhi reveal a sense of disquiet over what they perceive as a coordinated backlash from key Western strategic partners.
On Tuesday, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) disclosed that “Indian spies were kicked out of Australia after being caught trying to steal secrets about sensitive defence projects and airport security, as well as classified information on Australia’s trade relationships.” The reports by The Australian and the Sydney Morning Herald suggested that two Indian operatives were expelled from the country.
Just a day earlier, The Washington Post implicated an Indian intelligence official in an alleged assassination plot targeting pro-Khalistan Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The report attempted to establish connections with top officials in the Indian intelligence and security apparatus.
Responding to these allegations, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal denounced the reports, labeling them as “unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations” on a serious matter. He referred to an ongoing investigation by a high-level panel tasked with addressing security concerns raised by the US government regarding organized crime networks, terrorists, and others.
According to ABC, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Director-General Mike Burgess hinted at the existence of a spy network in his 2021 annual threat assessment, without divulging the identity of the country allegedly involved. Burgess reportedly outlined how the spies cultivated and recruited an Australian government security clearance holder with access to sensitive defence technology details.
As of now, the Indian government has refrained from responding to ABC’s revelations, particularly since the Australian government has not officially endorsed the claims made in the media.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, when questioned about the reports implicating the Indian government, refrained from commenting on intelligence matters. However, she emphasized the importance of democratic principles and maintaining resilience against foreign interference.
Sources within South Block and North Block, housing the Ministries of External and Home Affairs respectively, perceive these developments as Western agencies attempting to establish boundaries with India, a significant partner in the Quad grouping. Against the backdrop of India’s ongoing election season, there is a belief in New Delhi that Western allies are keen on influencing the post-election government to adopt a more cautious approach to overseas operations, particularly in certain countries.
