Canada’s intelligence agency, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), released declassified reports on Thursday regarding attempts by the governments of India and Pakistan to interfere in Canada’s elections, according to the CBC.

CSIS’s findings suggest during the 2021 Canadian federal election, India engaged in covert operations, including the deployment of a government proxy agent. This agent was allegedly involved in providing illegal financial support to candidates favorable to India’s interests. The agency noted that these activities were primarily aimed at electoral districts with significant numbers of Indo-Canadian voters. Specifically, the agency alleges these activities involve targeting ridings perceived to have voters sympathetic to the Khalistani movement or pro-Pakistan political stances. The agency also mentions the possibility of undisclosed financial support to pro-Indian candidates, which could have been conducted without the candidates’ knowledge.

CSIS indicated during the 2019 Canadian federal election, Pakistani government officials allegedly engaged in limited foreign interference. Specifically, CSIS alleges that Pakistani government officials attempted to “clandestinely influence and support Canadian politicians of Pakistani descent, with the aim of furthering Pakistani interests in Canada.” CSIS reports that the Canadian government took measures to reduce the threat posed by these activities, which were deemed effective upon review.

The ongoing public inquiry into foreign interference, now led by Marie-Josée Hogue, is focused on assessing the involvement of China, Russia, and other foreign entities. This inquiry follows public debate and concerns over the adequacy of Canada’s response to such interference, further ignited by allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination of a Sikh leader in Canada.