New Delhi: In a controversial decision stirring diplomatic waters, Canada has added India to its list of “enemy countries” in a recently released National Cyber Threat Assessment report for 2025-2026. The report places India alongside nations traditionally viewed as cybersecurity threats to Canada, such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, alleging India’s cyber program could be used for espionage and disruptive activities. According to the report, India is developing a cyber program that may be used for spying, counter-terrorism, and other national security activities, which Canadian authorities argue could potentially threaten Canada’s government networks.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs quickly rebuked the report, calling it a baseless attempt to tarnish India’s image on the global stage. Indian officials expressed shock over the inclusion, pointing to Canada’s lack of evidence supporting these claims. The Ministry’s spokesperson characterized the accusations as a “nefarious act” and argued it was part of a broader campaign by the Trudeau administration to misrepresent India. Senior Canadian officials have reportedly admitted that the Trudeau government seeks to defame India, and this cybersecurity report, they claim, lacks substance and credible evidence.
Background on Growing Tensions
Canada’s recent accusations follow a string of controversies between Ottawa and New Delhi. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has faced criticism for his close alignment with pro-Khalistan groups in Canada, which has strained Canada-India relations. This latest cyber advisory is seen by many as an extension of Trudeau’s stance, which India claims panders to separatist factions for political gains. Earlier, Indian diplomats stationed in Canada had alleged harassment, with claims of being monitored, recorded, and even threatened. The Ministry of External Affairs called this treatment a violation of diplomatic norms and international laws, emphasizing that recent reports from their officials indicate constant audio and visual surveillance by Canadian authorities.
India’s Response to Cyber Accusations
The cyber report suggests that India’s cyber programs could eventually come under the control of commercial cyber vendors, raising concerns that Canadian citizens and government information could be vulnerable to espionage by New Delhi. Indian officials dismissed these concerns as speculative and said they were intended to paint India as a security risk without factual basis. An official response from India’s Foreign Ministry reiterated that such allegations were “unfounded” and “recklessly exaggerated.”
The Ministry’s spokesperson underscored that India’s cybersecurity initiatives primarily target terrorism and cyber threats, and Canada’s accusations lack any credible proof of hostile intentions toward Canada.
This escalating diplomatic row reflects the tense relationship between the two nations. With Canada increasingly vocal about India as a perceived threat and India standing firm against what it sees as defamatory attacks, experts foresee prolonged diplomatic friction.
