The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has ignited a firestorm of controversy with the release of a new documentary scrutinizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government's alleged activities in Australia. The documentary, led by journalist and anchor Avani Dias, purports to "uncover the long arm of the Indian state here in Australia," making bold assertions about attempts to meddle in Australia's national security, albeit without presenting concrete evidence.
Opening with scenes of Prime Minister Modi amidst the recent Lok Sabha elections of 2024, the documentary swiftly shifts focus to Modi's deep-rooted connections with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Described as a "Hindu nationalist organisation," the RSS is characterized by Priya Chacko, Associate Professor at the University of Adelaide, as a "far-right paramilitary organisation." Chacko further comments on Modi's involvement with the RSS, stating he underwent "paramilitary training and indoctrination" through his long-standing association with the group.
"Today, we're releasing our investigation into the Narendra Modi Government and his allies' infiltration in Australia, including never-before-revealed details about an Indian ?nest of spies? that were asked to leave the country," Avani Dias declared in a post on X regarding the documentary's release.
The documentary, which takes a critical stance towards Prime Minister Modi, includes a contentious segment on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and features Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Pannun. It delves into the pro-Khalistani movement, claiming to have interviewed several individuals in Australia connected to the separatist cause.
"Narendra Modi has ruled India for a decade and will continue his reign following this month?s election, but he does not tolerate some critics. His government has been accused of foreign interference and assassinating dissidents overseas ? and now Four Corners has uncovered the long arm of the Indian state here in Australia," the documentary's introduction on YouTube states.
The ABC's description of the episode, originally aired as ?Infiltrating Australia? on June 17, 2024, on ABC TV and ABC iview, adds, "This investigation reveals new details about the local ?nest of spies? previously disrupted by ASIO and meets the Australian residents who say they have been threatened by India?s authorities."
