Difficult for press freedom: Aussie news portal on Canadian ban

New Delhi: Australia Today, an Australian news portal, has hit out at the Canadian administration, blocking it from airing a press conference by Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, where he made strong comments to criticise Ottawa, The Indian Express reported.

Australia Today wrote on X, "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."

It continued, "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."

Following the Canadian restriction over the portal, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that it was surprised by the strange move by the Justin Trudeau administration in Ottawa. The ministry said that the Canadian action again highlights Canada's hypocrisy towards freedom of speech.

Jaishankar had made comments on Canada's allegations against  India at Canberra over the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. He said that Ottawa had made the allegations without providing specifics. He added that it was unacceptable for New Delhi Ottawa to put its diplomats under surveillance.

"..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," The Indian Express quoted Jaishankar.