Jitarth Jai Bharadwaj, managing editor of The Australia Today, reaffirmed the publication’s commitment to open media despite a recent ban by Canadian authorities.
Prominent diaspora news outlet The Australia Today voiced deep concern on Friday after Canadian authorities reportedly blocked its social media accounts following coverage of a press conference featuring India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong. The restriction has sparked a diplomatic row, with India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) criticizing Canada’s stance on freedom of speech.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswalcommented on Canada’s actions, stating that blocking The Australia Today’s content “highlights the hypocrisy of Canada towards freedom of speech.”
In a statement, Bharadwaj reaffirmed The Australia Today’s dedication to open media. “We at The Australia Today would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to every news outlet, journalist, and supporter who stood by us during a challenging time,” Bharadwaj said.
He continued, “The recent restriction and ban on our interview with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and the press conference with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on social media, under orders from the Canadian government, have been difficult for our team and those who value free and open journalism.”
MEA Condemns Canada’s Actions
Expressing gratitude to supporters, Bharadwaj 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.”
The MEA further condemned Canada’s actions, calling them hypocritical. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised that blocking The Australia Today’s content “highlights the hypocrisy of Canada towards freedom of speech.” During the press conference, Jaishankar criticized Canada’s approach, pointing out a lack of evidence in its accusations and expressing concerns over the “political space” given to anti-India elements in Canada.
Jaiswal also mentioned the recent violence at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Mandir on November 3 near Toronto.
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Bharadwaj concluded, “We remain steadfast in our mission to bring important stories and voices to the public, undeterred by these obstacles… We will continue to advocate for an open and inclusive media landscape.”
