‘Ban difficult for those who value free and open journalism’: Australia news outlet on Canada blocking Jaishankar presser

Hours after it came to the fore that Ottawa has blocked an Australian news outlet.

That aired a press conference by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar where he made strong comments on the India-Canada standoff, the media company has hit out at the restriction.

The Australia Today, via a statement on X, said: “We at @TheAusToday would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to every #news outlet, #journalist, and #supporter who stood by us during a challenging time. The recent restriction and ban on our interview with Indian External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar and the press conference with Australian Foreign Minister @SenatorWong on #socialmedia, under orders from the Canadian government, have been difficult for our team and those who value free and open #journalism.”

They added, “Despite these restrictions, your unwavering support has been a beacon of strength for us. Whether it was sharing our coverage on other platforms, voicing concerns about Press Freedom, or simply offering encouragement, every action made a difference. We deeply appreciate the solidarity shown by our community and their commitment to upholding the freedom of information and the right of audiences to access #diverse perspectives.”

The Ministry of External Affairs Thursday had said that it was “surprised” over the “strange” Canadian move, adding that it “yet again highlights the hypocrisy of Canada towards freedom of speech”.

In Canberra, Jaishankar, in remarks on the Canadian allegations against India over the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, had said that Canada made the allegations without providing specifics and that it was unacceptable for India that its diplomats were put under surveillance.

“Let me make three comments. One, Canada has developed a pattern of making allegations without providing specifics. Secondly, when we look at Canada, for us the fact that they are putting our diplomats under surveillance is something which is unacceptable. Third, the incidents (attack on the Hindu temple), and do look at the videos. I think they will tell you in a way in political space today which has been given to extremist forces there,” he said, standing next to Wong.