SEPARATISM NOT A CRIME IN CANADA

INTERVIEW - Ward Elcock, former director, Canadian Security Intelligence Service

- NAMRATA BIJI AHUJA

WARD ELCOCK, FORMER director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, says supporting separatism is not a crime in Canada, be it the demand for a Quebec nation or a Khalistan state. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, Elcock speaks about the diplomatic row and how it escalates global tensions. He says although Canada has indicated a willingness to talk, there is no easy way out of the crisis. Edited excerpts:

Q/ There are reports of Indian diplomats being put under surveillance in Canada.

A/ The source of the intelligence has not been made clear so I would have no idea whether the information was based on surveillance of Indian diplomats in Canada, or not. But the reality of counter-intelligence is that frequently people in other countries carry out activities that can come under the purview of security agencies of host countries. I am sure Indian counter-intelligence agencies are similarly pursuing their own interests actively in their country. Their representatives are here as well for a long time. American National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is learnt to have said that the US agencies have had close consultations with Canada. So, if we take into consideration Canada's own capacity to develop intelligence and indications of added intelligence by the US, which is a close ally, it becomes significant.

Q/ Shouldn't Canada come out with evidence and put to rest speculation triggered by Prime Minister Trudeau's comments?