1 00:00:00,980 --> 00:00:03,020 (THEME MUSIC PLAYS) 2 00:00:16,180 --> 00:00:17,740 AVANI DIAS: For two and a half years 3 00:00:17,740 --> 00:00:21,900 I was the ABC's South Asia correspondent. 4 00:00:21,900 --> 00:00:24,940 One of the first things that hit me when I arrived in India 5 00:00:24,940 --> 00:00:25,180 One of the first things that hit me was the passion for this man, 6 00:00:25,180 --> 00:00:28,100 was the passion for this man, 7 00:00:28,100 --> 00:00:29,820 Narendra Modi. 8 00:00:29,820 --> 00:00:30,900 (CHEERING) 9 00:00:30,900 --> 00:00:34,980 I mean, look at this popularity that Narendra Modi has. 10 00:00:34,980 --> 00:00:38,260 The crowd is going absolutely crazy. CROWD: (CHANTS) Modi! Modi! Modi! 11 00:00:38,260 --> 00:00:41,900 And it feels like the biggest rock star in the world 12 00:00:41,900 --> 00:00:43,260 has just arrived. 13 00:00:43,260 --> 00:00:46,100 As prime minister of an emerging superpower, 14 00:00:46,100 --> 00:00:46,340 As prime minister Modi's courted like a god, 15 00:00:46,340 --> 00:00:48,580 Modi's courted like a god, 16 00:00:48,580 --> 00:00:50,260 including in Australia. 17 00:00:50,260 --> 00:00:52,940 Prime Minister Modi is the boss! 18 00:00:52,940 --> 00:00:54,340 (CHEERING) 19 00:00:54,340 --> 00:00:58,540 But Modi does not tolerate accountability. 20 00:00:59,500 --> 00:01:01,700 (PHONE LINE RINGS) 21 00:01:01,700 --> 00:01:03,660 He's gone square... looked at us in the face and said, 22 00:01:03,660 --> 00:01:08,940 "You are the most hostile foreign organisation in India right now." 23 00:01:08,940 --> 00:01:11,700 They're not going to extend my visa. 24 00:01:11,700 --> 00:01:16,660 And his government's accused of assassinating dissidents overseas. 25 00:01:18,100 --> 00:01:20,340 MONINDER SINGH: I heard a panicked voice on the other side saying, 26 00:01:20,340 --> 00:01:21,380 "They've shot Hardeep." 27 00:01:23,100 --> 00:01:27,420 Now we've uncovered the long arm of the Indian state 28 00:01:27,420 --> 00:01:28,860 here in Australia... 29 00:01:28,860 --> 00:01:31,340 We're from the ABC's Four Corners. Don't shoot, don't shoot. 30 00:01:31,340 --> 00:01:33,580 It's not the conduct you'd expect from a friendly nation. 31 00:01:33,580 --> 00:01:39,580 ..waging a secret war and threatening Australia's national security. 32 00:01:39,580 --> 00:01:40,620 Insane. 33 00:01:40,620 --> 00:01:43,460 Australia is nothing. Do you know the size of India? 34 00:01:43,460 --> 00:01:43,740 So, next time, Australia is nothing. shut up and show respect. Do you know the size of India? 35 00:01:43,740 --> 00:01:46,540 So, next time, shut up and show respect. 36 00:01:55,220 --> 00:01:57,620 (INDISTINCT CHATTER) 37 00:01:57,620 --> 00:01:59,660 (BIRDS TWITTER) 38 00:02:10,380 --> 00:02:13,060 Over 600 million people in India 39 00:02:13,060 --> 00:02:16,060 are about to vote for their prime minister. 40 00:02:16,060 --> 00:02:18,900 It's a story I've always wanted to cover... 41 00:02:18,900 --> 00:02:20,260 Pack. 42 00:02:20,260 --> 00:02:23,380 ..but my partner and I are leaving. 43 00:02:26,260 --> 00:02:29,740 Well, we are packing up our house in Delhi. 44 00:02:29,740 --> 00:02:32,700 It's gotten to this point where we're running out of time now. 45 00:02:32,700 --> 00:02:35,740 It's just two days before my visa expires, 46 00:02:35,740 --> 00:02:38,820 and it's a real struggle to get any answers 47 00:02:38,820 --> 00:02:39,060 and it's a real struggle about what's actually going on. 48 00:02:39,060 --> 00:02:41,300 about what's actually going on. 49 00:02:41,300 --> 00:02:43,300 And we just have no choice now 50 00:02:43,300 --> 00:02:47,340 but to actually pack up our lives and leave the country. 51 00:02:51,060 --> 00:02:54,300 Last month, I got a call from a government official 52 00:02:54,300 --> 00:02:56,860 saying my reporting had crossed a line. 53 00:02:56,860 --> 00:03:00,580 He said a story I'd done was "beyond extreme." 54 00:03:00,580 --> 00:03:00,820 He said a story I'd done It was a shock. 55 00:03:00,820 --> 00:03:02,100 It was a shock. 56 00:03:03,060 --> 00:03:07,660 But when I really interrogate what's happened to India in the past decade 57 00:03:07,660 --> 00:03:07,900 But when I really interrogate what's under Narendra Modi, 58 00:03:07,900 --> 00:03:09,420 under Narendra Modi, 59 00:03:09,420 --> 00:03:11,140 I'm not surprised. 60 00:03:18,940 --> 00:03:23,740 (TRAFFIC BUZZES, HORNS BEEP) 61 00:03:23,740 --> 00:03:26,180 During Modi's 10-year reign 62 00:03:26,180 --> 00:03:28,700 India's middle class has grown. 63 00:03:29,660 --> 00:03:34,260 He says he's lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty. 64 00:03:39,420 --> 00:03:42,500 CROWD: (CHANTS) Modi! Modi! Modi! 65 00:03:42,500 --> 00:03:42,700 CROWD: (CHANTS) Modi! Modi! Modi! Modi! Modi! 66 00:03:42,700 --> 00:03:44,300 Modi! Modi! 67 00:03:44,300 --> 00:03:49,580 Modi! Modi! Modi! 68 00:03:49,580 --> 00:03:51,380 Modi! Modi! 69 00:04:07,900 --> 00:04:13,500 Wherever you go, you find spick and span roads, good infrastructure. 70 00:04:13,500 --> 00:04:18,500 (CROWD CHANTS IN HINDI) 71 00:04:25,940 --> 00:04:28,140 CROWD: (CHANTS) Modi! Modi! Modi! 72 00:04:28,140 --> 00:04:30,980 Modi! Modi! Modi! 73 00:04:43,660 --> 00:04:47,700 Modi! Modi! Modi! Modi! Modi! 74 00:04:47,700 --> 00:04:50,740 (MILITARY MUSIC PLAYS) 75 00:04:53,060 --> 00:04:54,300 At age eight 76 00:04:54,300 --> 00:04:58,460 Modi joined the far-right Hindu nationalist organisation 77 00:04:58,460 --> 00:05:03,860 the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, or the RSS. 78 00:05:03,860 --> 00:05:04,620 (WHISTLE BLOWS) 79 00:05:04,620 --> 00:05:07,980 PRIYA CHACKO: The RSS is commonly described 80 00:05:07,980 --> 00:05:11,980 as a far-right paramilitary organisation. 81 00:05:11,980 --> 00:05:12,220 as a far-right It was formed in the 1920s 82 00:05:12,220 --> 00:05:15,460 It was formed in the 1920s 83 00:05:15,460 --> 00:05:16,780 and it was inspired 84 00:05:16,780 --> 00:05:20,860 by German Nazism and Italian fascism. 85 00:05:24,180 --> 00:05:25,660 SONG: # Namaste... # 86 00:05:25,660 --> 00:05:28,300 The RSS rejects secular India 87 00:05:28,300 --> 00:05:28,540 and wants it to be a Hindu state. rejects secular India 88 00:05:28,540 --> 00:05:31,460 and wants it to be a Hindu state. 89 00:05:31,460 --> 00:05:35,580 It's the largest far-right organisation in the world 90 00:05:35,580 --> 00:05:37,820 with millions of members. 91 00:05:38,740 --> 00:05:43,860 Modi's ruling party, the BJP, grew out of the RSS. 92 00:05:44,820 --> 00:05:48,900 Modi was a long-time RSS member. 93 00:05:48,900 --> 00:05:53,420 Most of the BJP's top leadership have a history in the RSS, 94 00:05:53,420 --> 00:05:58,620 so, he went through the paramilitary training, the indoctrination. 95 00:05:58,620 --> 00:06:01,420 (CHEERING) 96 00:06:01,420 --> 00:06:07,300 Supporters say these organisations are reclaiming a lost Hindu identity. 97 00:06:07,300 --> 00:06:11,980 Others criticise them for politicising the religion. 98 00:06:11,980 --> 00:06:12,220 Others criticise them (CHEERING) 99 00:06:12,220 --> 00:06:13,820 (CHEERING) 100 00:06:13,820 --> 00:06:14,060 The BJP seeks to conflate (CHEERING) 101 00:06:14,060 --> 00:06:19,820 The BJP seeks to conflate a very pluralistic religion 102 00:06:19,820 --> 00:06:20,060 The BJP seeks to conflate into a very narrow form. 103 00:06:20,060 --> 00:06:22,340 into a very narrow form. 104 00:06:22,340 --> 00:06:24,740 India is a very diverse country. 105 00:06:24,740 --> 00:06:28,380 Modi's ideology wants to diminish all of that. 106 00:06:29,740 --> 00:06:34,220 Modi's pushed Hindu supremacy and ultra nationalism, 107 00:06:34,220 --> 00:06:39,460 but claims democracy is still strong in India. 108 00:06:39,460 --> 00:06:43,860 Democracy is the spirit 109 00:06:43,860 --> 00:06:50,060 that supports equality and dignity. 110 00:06:50,060 --> 00:06:52,980 (APPLAUSE) 111 00:06:52,980 --> 00:06:57,060 India is blessed to have such values 112 00:06:57,060 --> 00:06:59,620 from times immemorial. 113 00:06:59,620 --> 00:07:04,700 In the evolution of the democratic spirit, 114 00:07:04,700 --> 00:07:04,940 In the evolution India is the mother of democracy. 115 00:07:04,940 --> 00:07:08,100 India is the mother of democracy. 116 00:07:08,100 --> 00:07:09,620 Thank you. 117 00:07:09,620 --> 00:07:11,500 (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) 118 00:07:11,500 --> 00:07:13,340 But he's hardened his stance 119 00:07:13,340 --> 00:07:17,860 against minorities, dissidents and freedom of speech. 120 00:07:36,740 --> 00:07:41,580 Mandeep Punia is part of India's enormous media landscape. 121 00:07:41,580 --> 00:07:41,820 Mandeep Punia is part of India's (SPEAKS IN HINDI) 122 00:07:41,820 --> 00:07:43,020 (SPEAKS IN HINDI) 123 00:07:45,260 --> 00:07:46,460 (KNOCKS) 124 00:07:49,140 --> 00:07:50,860 Hello! Hello. How are you? 125 00:07:50,860 --> 00:07:51,660 Mandeep? Yeah. 126 00:07:51,660 --> 00:07:51,900 Mandeep? Avani. Nice to meet you. 127 00:07:51,900 --> 00:07:53,100 Avani. Nice to meet you. 128 00:07:54,060 --> 00:07:56,260 In 2021 he was jailed 129 00:07:56,260 --> 00:07:57,940 after reporting a story 130 00:07:57,940 --> 00:08:02,460 claiming a BJP worker and affiliate attacked protesters 131 00:08:02,460 --> 00:08:04,340 with a petrol bomb. 132 00:08:04,340 --> 00:08:09,700 Police accused Mandeep of obstructing an officer at the protest. 133 00:08:29,140 --> 00:08:32,060 (TRAFFIC DRONES, HORNS BEEP) 134 00:08:32,060 --> 00:08:34,060 (INAUDIBLE) 135 00:08:43,380 --> 00:08:48,780 Minorities like Sikhs and Muslims also say they're being targeted. 136 00:08:52,340 --> 00:08:54,180 Modi's party has been accused 137 00:08:54,180 --> 00:08:54,420 of supporting demolitions Modi's party has been accused 138 00:08:54,420 --> 00:08:58,420 of supporting demolitions of Muslim homes and mosques... 139 00:08:59,380 --> 00:09:02,500 ..like Shabbana's place in North Delhi. 140 00:09:20,980 --> 00:09:25,540 (INDISTINCT CHATTER) 141 00:09:25,540 --> 00:09:30,860 I quickly learned holding Modi to account can land you in hot water. 142 00:09:32,620 --> 00:09:36,540 When I started reporting on the death of a Sikh separatist, 143 00:09:36,540 --> 00:09:36,780 When I started reporting things started getting difficult. 144 00:09:36,780 --> 00:09:38,540 things started getting difficult. 145 00:09:38,540 --> 00:09:39,540 Hi. 146 00:09:39,540 --> 00:09:39,780 I have to inform you Hi. 147 00:09:39,780 --> 00:09:41,620 I have to inform you that your permission was cancelled. 148 00:09:41,620 --> 00:09:41,860 I have to inform you You need to give us a reason 149 00:09:41,860 --> 00:09:43,100 You need to give us a reason 150 00:09:43,100 --> 00:09:46,180 for why you've suddenly decided not to allow us. 151 00:09:46,180 --> 00:09:46,420 for why you've suddenly decided The reason I can't explain you that. 152 00:09:46,420 --> 00:09:48,660 The reason I can't explain you that. 153 00:09:53,820 --> 00:09:58,500 The Indian government blocked my story on YouTube and Facebook 154 00:09:58,500 --> 00:09:58,740 The Indian government blocked and it was quick to act against me. 155 00:09:58,740 --> 00:10:01,860 and it was quick to act against me. 156 00:10:01,860 --> 00:10:05,140 They're not going to extend my visa. 157 00:10:05,140 --> 00:10:06,300 Um... 158 00:10:06,300 --> 00:10:07,900 Honestly, pretty crazy. 159 00:10:07,900 --> 00:10:11,660 It feels weird and it's disappointing. 160 00:10:11,660 --> 00:10:11,900 It feels weird Um... 161 00:10:11,900 --> 00:10:13,300 Um... 162 00:10:13,300 --> 00:10:13,540 I actually can't quite believe Um... 163 00:10:13,540 --> 00:10:16,260 I actually can't quite believe that they're doing this, 164 00:10:16,260 --> 00:10:19,500 and it sets a really bad precedent for India. 165 00:10:19,500 --> 00:10:19,740 and it sets a really bad precedent (TRAFFIC BUZZES, HORNS BEEP) 166 00:10:19,740 --> 00:10:22,540 (TRAFFIC BUZZES, HORNS BEEP) 167 00:10:27,100 --> 00:10:30,300 I don't think there's much more we can really do. 168 00:10:32,100 --> 00:10:36,060 The Australian government started lobbying on my behalf. 169 00:10:36,060 --> 00:10:37,020 Hello? 170 00:10:37,020 --> 00:10:40,140 (SPEAKS IN HINDI) 171 00:10:40,140 --> 00:10:41,660 At the same time 172 00:10:41,660 --> 00:10:41,900 my colleague Meghna and I were At the same time 173 00:10:41,900 --> 00:10:45,100 my colleague Meghna and I were trying to organise our access passes 174 00:10:45,100 --> 00:10:45,340 my colleague Meghna and I were for the election. 175 00:10:45,340 --> 00:10:46,660 for the election. 176 00:10:46,660 --> 00:10:48,740 Sir, elections start on Friday. 177 00:10:48,740 --> 00:10:48,980 Sir, elections We need the passes. 178 00:10:48,980 --> 00:10:50,220 We need the passes. 179 00:10:50,220 --> 00:10:50,460 So, what did they initially We need the passes. 180 00:10:50,460 --> 00:10:52,700 So, what did they initially say to you about the passes? 181 00:10:52,700 --> 00:10:54,460 What they've said is that 182 00:10:54,460 --> 00:10:57,660 the ministry has given them a directive 183 00:10:57,660 --> 00:11:00,140 not to release the ABC's passes. 184 00:11:00,140 --> 00:11:03,700 He said, "Australian Broadcasting is not to receive passes." 185 00:11:03,700 --> 00:11:03,940 He said, "Australian Broadcasting So, he directly said that to you? 186 00:11:03,940 --> 00:11:04,980 So, he directly said that to you? 187 00:11:04,980 --> 00:11:07,340 He directly said that to me this morning. 188 00:11:07,340 --> 00:11:11,020 (TRAFFIC BUZZES, HORNS BEEP) 189 00:11:11,020 --> 00:11:13,500 'Cause obviously you'll be travelling with Meghna later this week, 190 00:11:13,500 --> 00:11:15,260 we've got our shoots this week... 191 00:11:15,260 --> 00:11:18,940 Meghna spoke to the BJP about our coverage. 192 00:11:18,940 --> 00:11:22,700 We finally end up in a room with someone who's a BJP spokesman. 193 00:11:22,700 --> 00:11:22,940 We finally end up in a room We said, "We're from the ABC," 194 00:11:22,940 --> 00:11:24,340 We said, "We're from the ABC," 195 00:11:24,340 --> 00:11:26,820 and he sort of just looked at us and he's gone square... 196 00:11:26,820 --> 00:11:28,260 ..looked at us in the face and said, 197 00:11:28,260 --> 00:11:28,500 "You are the most hostile foreign ..looked at us in the face and said, 198 00:11:28,500 --> 00:11:32,780 "You are the most hostile foreign organisation in India right now. 199 00:11:32,780 --> 00:11:35,860 "You are after us and you have the most biased reporting." 200 00:11:35,860 --> 00:11:39,420 How do you feel about covering it after that conversation? 201 00:11:39,420 --> 00:11:41,940 Getting that confirmation straight from the horse's mouth? 202 00:11:41,940 --> 00:11:42,180 Getting that confirmation I'm not going to lie, I was like... 203 00:11:42,180 --> 00:11:43,380 I'm not going to lie, I was like... 204 00:11:43,380 --> 00:11:44,900 For a second we were sort of like, 205 00:11:44,900 --> 00:11:47,700 "How are we going to get through the next six weeks 206 00:11:47,700 --> 00:11:49,980 "in a balanced, factual way 207 00:11:49,980 --> 00:11:52,460 "if one half of the team isn't talking to us 208 00:11:52,460 --> 00:11:54,100 "and that's the team that's in power?" 209 00:12:08,500 --> 00:12:12,140 Eventually Meghna got her pass, but mine didn't come through. 210 00:12:16,460 --> 00:12:18,940 The night before our flight home to Australia 211 00:12:18,940 --> 00:12:19,180 The night before our flight home I got a short visa extension, 212 00:12:19,180 --> 00:12:21,380 I got a short visa extension, 213 00:12:21,380 --> 00:12:22,660 but it was clear 214 00:12:22,660 --> 00:12:25,540 I wasn't getting access to cover the election properly, 215 00:12:25,540 --> 00:12:25,780 I wasn't getting access so, I decided to leave. 216 00:12:25,780 --> 00:12:27,460 so, I decided to leave. 217 00:12:30,380 --> 00:12:32,900 Well, I'm in the terminal in Delhi, 218 00:12:32,900 --> 00:12:34,940 made it through security and immigration. 219 00:12:34,940 --> 00:12:37,460 I don't like that this intimidation is getting to me, 220 00:12:37,460 --> 00:12:39,380 but the last few weeks have been so stressful, 221 00:12:39,380 --> 00:12:39,620 but the last few weeks it's been so unsettling, 222 00:12:39,620 --> 00:12:42,180 it's been so unsettling, 223 00:12:42,180 --> 00:12:46,060 and I'm ready to go home. 224 00:12:55,060 --> 00:12:58,260 I arrived home to a media storm. 225 00:12:59,340 --> 00:13:01,580 ARCHIVE REPORTER: Avani Dias, Australian... 226 00:13:01,580 --> 00:13:05,860 Outlets sympathetic to the Modi government started discrediting me. 227 00:13:12,780 --> 00:13:14,780 This ABC journalist also has a track record 228 00:13:14,780 --> 00:13:17,300 of peddling anti-Hindu propaganda, which could be... 229 00:13:17,300 --> 00:13:19,340 Australia is nothing. 230 00:13:19,340 --> 00:13:21,180 You're nothing. 231 00:13:21,180 --> 00:13:22,900 Do you know the size of India? 232 00:13:22,900 --> 00:13:26,580 So, next time, shut up and show respect. 233 00:13:26,580 --> 00:13:28,820 You're talking about the Prime Minister of India. 234 00:13:28,820 --> 00:13:30,700 Yeah, you can go and abuse the Prime Minister of Australia 235 00:13:30,700 --> 00:13:30,940 Yeah, you can go and abuse for all you like, I don't care. 236 00:13:30,940 --> 00:13:32,620 for all you like, I don't care. 237 00:13:32,620 --> 00:13:32,860 When you talk about for all you like, I don't care. 238 00:13:32,860 --> 00:13:34,580 When you talk about the Prime Minister of India, 239 00:13:34,580 --> 00:13:34,820 When you talk about you do so with respect. 240 00:13:34,820 --> 00:13:35,700 you do so with respect. 241 00:13:35,700 --> 00:13:37,820 And don't give me this nonsense about media freedom. 242 00:13:37,820 --> 00:13:38,060 And don't give me this nonsense What you're writing is lies. 243 00:13:38,060 --> 00:13:40,300 What you're writing is lies. 244 00:13:41,740 --> 00:13:44,500 The Australian government response was muted. 245 00:13:44,500 --> 00:13:47,980 It said it appreciated India's assistance 246 00:13:47,980 --> 00:13:50,780 in eventually granting me a visa. 247 00:13:56,900 --> 00:13:58,700 As I settled in back home, 248 00:13:58,700 --> 00:14:03,700 I discovered the Modi government's tentacles stretch into Australia. 249 00:14:06,300 --> 00:14:07,660 To understand it 250 00:14:07,660 --> 00:14:10,500 you need to know two of the main organisations 251 00:14:10,500 --> 00:14:14,260 that hold up the Hindu nationalist movement - 252 00:14:14,260 --> 00:14:18,540 the RSS, described as a far-right paramilitary group, 253 00:14:18,540 --> 00:14:22,380 and Modi's more mainstream political party, the BJP. 254 00:14:23,340 --> 00:14:27,940 I found out these groups have sister Hindu nationalist organisations 255 00:14:27,940 --> 00:14:30,300 operating in Australia. 256 00:14:32,700 --> 00:14:36,060 (BIRDS SQUAWK) 257 00:14:36,060 --> 00:14:38,620 (BIRDS TWITTER) 258 00:14:43,380 --> 00:14:45,660 I've come to a part of western Sydney 259 00:14:45,660 --> 00:14:49,140 where many Hindus practise their faith. 260 00:14:50,180 --> 00:14:52,420 So, what would you usually do at the river here? 261 00:14:52,420 --> 00:14:56,420 Well, we'd have the conclusion of the Ganesha festival, 262 00:14:56,420 --> 00:14:57,620 and they bring the idols... 263 00:14:57,620 --> 00:15:01,140 Arjun Nidigallu was an HSS camp leader. 264 00:15:01,140 --> 00:15:05,380 His parents signed him up when he was a kid. 265 00:15:05,380 --> 00:15:05,620 His parents signed him up My parents, like most migrants, 266 00:15:05,620 --> 00:15:06,860 My parents, like most migrants, 267 00:15:06,860 --> 00:15:07,100 were concerned My parents, like most migrants, 268 00:15:07,100 --> 00:15:08,860 were concerned that I wasn't getting, 269 00:15:08,860 --> 00:15:09,100 were concerned like, a cultural upbringing, 270 00:15:09,100 --> 00:15:10,420 like, a cultural upbringing, 271 00:15:10,420 --> 00:15:12,100 and, so, they'd send me to these camps. 272 00:15:13,060 --> 00:15:17,460 The HSS has at least 30 branches across Australia. 273 00:15:17,460 --> 00:15:21,380 Arjun says for years it felt harmless. 274 00:15:21,380 --> 00:15:21,620 Arjun says There are people you meet 275 00:15:21,620 --> 00:15:22,860 There are people you meet 276 00:15:22,860 --> 00:15:23,100 who go through similar issues There are people you meet 277 00:15:23,100 --> 00:15:26,220 who go through similar issues around racism and bullying, 278 00:15:26,220 --> 00:15:29,980 and you come back feeling like you're not alone, 279 00:15:29,980 --> 00:15:30,220 and you come back and that was a big thing. 280 00:15:30,220 --> 00:15:31,740 and that was a big thing. 281 00:15:31,740 --> 00:15:33,380 Where I was more involved... 282 00:15:33,380 --> 00:15:36,380 Eventually, he helped run the camps. 283 00:15:36,380 --> 00:15:38,140 What was the final straw for you 284 00:15:38,140 --> 00:15:41,580 that made you want to leave all of these organisations? 285 00:15:41,580 --> 00:15:41,820 that made you want to leave It was a festival event, 286 00:15:41,820 --> 00:15:43,260 It was a festival event, 287 00:15:43,260 --> 00:15:44,900 a lot of young children, 288 00:15:44,900 --> 00:15:47,380 and children as young as seven were playing tug of war 289 00:15:47,380 --> 00:15:49,900 as part of the games they were playing for the festival, 290 00:15:49,900 --> 00:15:53,060 and they were instructed to shout a slogan repetitively 291 00:15:53,060 --> 00:15:53,300 and they were instructed as they played tug of war. 292 00:15:53,300 --> 00:15:54,660 as they played tug of war. 293 00:15:54,660 --> 00:15:56,940 Um... And in Hindi it goes like this, 294 00:15:56,940 --> 00:15:57,180 Um... And in Hindi it goes, "Hindustaan Hinduon kahai," 295 00:15:57,180 --> 00:15:59,700 it goes, "Hindustaan Hinduon kahai," 296 00:15:59,700 --> 00:15:59,940 which means, "Hindustan," or India, it goes, "Hindustaan Hinduon kahai," 297 00:15:59,940 --> 00:16:04,220 which means, "Hindustan," or India, "belongs to the Hindus." 298 00:16:04,220 --> 00:16:08,820 And you've got young kids who... and I knew these kids, 299 00:16:08,820 --> 00:16:11,340 they didn't speak anything but English. 300 00:16:11,340 --> 00:16:13,580 And that image just didn't sit well with me. 301 00:16:13,580 --> 00:16:15,820 And, no matter how hard you try, 302 00:16:15,820 --> 00:16:19,540 the toxicity eventually trickles down to the children. 303 00:16:19,540 --> 00:16:19,780 the toxicity eventually And that was my last event 304 00:16:19,780 --> 00:16:22,900 And that was my last event 305 00:16:22,900 --> 00:16:23,140 and I had to walk away from that And that was my last event 306 00:16:23,140 --> 00:16:25,460 and I had to walk away from that after that. 307 00:16:29,540 --> 00:16:31,540 So, this is your studio? 308 00:16:31,540 --> 00:16:31,780 Welcome to the studio. (CHUCKLES) So, this is your studio? 309 00:16:31,780 --> 00:16:34,260 Welcome to the studio. (CHUCKLES) Nice. 310 00:16:34,260 --> 00:16:34,500 Welcome to the studio. (CHUCKLES) It's been almost 10 years 311 00:16:34,500 --> 00:16:36,300 It's been almost 10 years 312 00:16:36,300 --> 00:16:40,820 since Arjun left the Hindu nationalist movement in Australia. 313 00:16:40,820 --> 00:16:43,620 These organisations have more or less taken a monopoly 314 00:16:43,620 --> 00:16:45,620 on what it is to be Hindu. 315 00:16:45,620 --> 00:16:50,460 You don't hear the voices of those who are secular Hindus. 316 00:16:50,460 --> 00:16:53,140 So, we found a few videos on social media 317 00:16:53,140 --> 00:16:53,380 So, we found a few videos of the RSS shakhas and the camps, 318 00:16:53,380 --> 00:16:55,900 of the RSS shakhas and the camps, 319 00:16:55,900 --> 00:16:56,140 and I just wanted to kind of of the RSS shakhas and the camps, 320 00:16:56,140 --> 00:16:59,460 and I just wanted to kind of understand them a bit more. 321 00:16:59,460 --> 00:17:01,980 So, there's this one. There's all these kids. 322 00:17:01,980 --> 00:17:04,580 Do you want to play this one? Yeah, sure. 323 00:17:04,580 --> 00:17:04,820 Do you want to play this one? Ha! 324 00:17:04,820 --> 00:17:05,580 Ha! 325 00:17:05,580 --> 00:17:06,660 Teen! Ha! 326 00:17:06,660 --> 00:17:09,820 We've analysed dozens of videos and photos 327 00:17:09,820 --> 00:17:10,060 We've analysed dozens of Australian-Indian kids 328 00:17:10,060 --> 00:17:11,260 of Australian-Indian kids 329 00:17:11,260 --> 00:17:11,460 and adults of Australian-Indian kids 330 00:17:11,460 --> 00:17:12,500 and adults 331 00:17:12,500 --> 00:17:13,900 at HSS camps. 332 00:17:14,860 --> 00:17:18,020 It looks normal, but there's another side. 333 00:17:18,020 --> 00:17:19,660 These two framed photos, they're the founders... 334 00:17:19,660 --> 00:17:23,820 At the camps there's a tribute to two influential historical figures 335 00:17:23,820 --> 00:17:24,060 At the camps there's a tribute in the Hindu nationalist movement. 336 00:17:24,060 --> 00:17:26,300 in the Hindu nationalist movement. 337 00:17:26,300 --> 00:17:28,300 One of them, MS Golwalkar, 338 00:17:28,300 --> 00:17:28,540 said minorities like Muslims One of them, MS Golwalkar, 339 00:17:28,540 --> 00:17:32,180 said minorities like Muslims were a threat to India 340 00:17:32,180 --> 00:17:36,740 and the country could learn from the Nazis' killing of Jews. 341 00:17:37,660 --> 00:17:41,820 I think the way the history is told to the children 342 00:17:41,820 --> 00:17:43,620 and the way the narrative is structured 343 00:17:43,620 --> 00:17:43,860 and the way the narrative is that these are our heroes. 344 00:17:43,860 --> 00:17:45,340 is that these are our heroes. 345 00:17:45,340 --> 00:17:48,700 It's clear that the Hindu race is seen as the dominant race, 346 00:17:48,700 --> 00:17:50,100 one that matters 347 00:17:50,100 --> 00:17:53,300 and, more importantly, one that actually has ownership 348 00:17:53,300 --> 00:17:53,540 and, more importantly, of the Indian land. 349 00:17:53,540 --> 00:17:54,860 of the Indian land. 350 00:17:56,620 --> 00:17:59,540 In parks and halls across Australia 351 00:17:59,540 --> 00:18:01,780 participants are also being taught 352 00:18:01,780 --> 00:18:05,580 an Indian martial art called danda. 353 00:18:05,580 --> 00:18:08,300 The large and heavy bamboo sticks, 354 00:18:08,300 --> 00:18:08,540 and this is to inculcate a sense The large and heavy bamboo sticks, 355 00:18:08,540 --> 00:18:12,580 and this is to inculcate a sense of self-discipline, self-defence 356 00:18:12,580 --> 00:18:12,820 and this is to inculcate a sense and the way they frame it 357 00:18:12,820 --> 00:18:14,180 and the way they frame it 358 00:18:14,180 --> 00:18:17,660 is to be prepared "for any invaders and any attacks." 359 00:18:17,660 --> 00:18:17,900 is to be prepared Arjun, this does look a bit 360 00:18:17,900 --> 00:18:20,740 Arjun, this does look a bit 361 00:18:20,740 --> 00:18:22,700 like a normal martial arts class. 362 00:18:22,700 --> 00:18:25,620 What makes it dangerous? 363 00:18:25,620 --> 00:18:29,420 The way it plays itself out in the real world. 364 00:18:29,420 --> 00:18:32,660 In India, when it comes to minority treatment, 365 00:18:32,660 --> 00:18:37,500 when it comes to tearing down the places of worship of minorities, 366 00:18:37,500 --> 00:18:37,740 when it comes to tearing down this does play itself 367 00:18:37,740 --> 00:18:39,380 this does play itself 368 00:18:39,380 --> 00:18:40,900 in a violent way. 369 00:18:40,900 --> 00:18:41,100 (INSTRUCTOR SPEAKS in HINDI) in a violent way. 370 00:18:41,100 --> 00:18:43,940 (INSTRUCTOR SPEAKS in HINDI) 371 00:18:43,940 --> 00:18:44,140 (INSTRUCTOR SPEAKS in HINDI) (INDISTINCT YELLING) 372 00:18:44,140 --> 00:18:46,780 (INDISTINCT YELLING) 373 00:18:46,780 --> 00:18:48,660 As you can see in this footage, 374 00:18:48,660 --> 00:18:48,900 danda is used As you can see in this footage, 375 00:18:48,900 --> 00:18:52,940 danda is used by Hindu nationalist devotees 376 00:18:52,940 --> 00:18:56,420 in deadly riots against Indian Muslims. 377 00:18:59,100 --> 00:19:03,380 We've also found Australian HSS volunteers 378 00:19:03,380 --> 00:19:06,860 have attended RSS training camps in India 379 00:19:06,860 --> 00:19:10,940 and held talks for RSS leaders in Australia. 380 00:19:14,820 --> 00:19:17,020 A spokesperson from HSS Australia 381 00:19:17,020 --> 00:19:20,220 told us danda is like other self-defence training. 382 00:19:20,220 --> 00:19:23,500 They said the organisation does charity work 383 00:19:23,500 --> 00:19:26,900 and that it takes inspiration from the RSS. 384 00:19:31,540 --> 00:19:34,780 As one of the largest diasporas in the country, 385 00:19:34,780 --> 00:19:38,980 Indian-Australians now hold huge political power. 386 00:19:45,860 --> 00:19:50,620 It's something Australian politicians are keenly aware of. 387 00:19:53,980 --> 00:19:57,340 Together we are building a better world. 388 00:19:58,460 --> 00:19:59,940 For several years 389 00:19:59,940 --> 00:20:04,140 our politicians have been cosying up to the Indian government, 390 00:20:04,140 --> 00:20:09,100 keen to position us to benefit from this emerging superpower's growth. 391 00:20:10,500 --> 00:20:12,740 Prime Minister Modi and I discussed 392 00:20:12,740 --> 00:20:16,220 the increasingly uncertain global-security environment. 393 00:20:20,420 --> 00:20:22,860 India is also an important bulwark 394 00:20:22,860 --> 00:20:26,380 against China's increasing power in the region. 395 00:20:28,980 --> 00:20:30,500 (CHEERING) 396 00:20:30,500 --> 00:20:33,100 Some watching the Australia-India relationship 397 00:20:33,100 --> 00:20:33,340 Some watching are asking, "At what cost?" 398 00:20:33,340 --> 00:20:35,980 are asking, "At what cost?" 399 00:20:38,940 --> 00:20:41,340 PRIYA CHACKO: The Australian government has been very quiet 400 00:20:41,340 --> 00:20:44,340 in terms of commenting on or criticising 401 00:20:44,340 --> 00:20:47,900 India's turn toward authoritarianism. 402 00:20:47,900 --> 00:20:50,460 It's embraced Narendra Modi. 403 00:20:50,460 --> 00:20:53,940 So, a lot of the authoritarian features 404 00:20:53,940 --> 00:20:54,180 So, a lot of the Narendra Modi government 405 00:20:54,180 --> 00:20:56,180 of the Narendra Modi government 406 00:20:56,180 --> 00:20:58,660 simply have been swept under the carpet 407 00:20:58,660 --> 00:21:01,780 by the Australian government, unfortunately. 408 00:21:01,780 --> 00:21:02,020 by the Australian government, (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) 409 00:21:02,020 --> 00:21:05,100 (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) 410 00:21:05,100 --> 00:21:09,140 The last time I saw someone on the stage here was Bruce Springsteen, 411 00:21:09,140 --> 00:21:12,580 and he didn't get the welcome that Prime Minister Modi has got! 412 00:21:12,580 --> 00:21:18,100 (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) 413 00:21:18,100 --> 00:21:21,020 Prime Minister Modi is the boss! 414 00:21:21,020 --> 00:21:25,500 (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) 415 00:21:25,500 --> 00:21:29,980 I want you to give a big Australian welcome to my dear friend, 416 00:21:29,980 --> 00:21:32,540 Prime Minister Narendra Modi! 417 00:21:32,540 --> 00:21:34,700 Hindu nationalist groups in Australia 418 00:21:34,700 --> 00:21:40,180 helped organise this stadium event during Modi's Sydney visit last year. 419 00:21:40,180 --> 00:21:44,980 One of the groups is called the Overseas Friends of the BJP. 420 00:21:44,980 --> 00:21:45,220 One of the groups is called (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) 421 00:21:45,220 --> 00:21:47,460 (CHEERING, APPLAUSE) 422 00:21:47,460 --> 00:21:51,820 Would you classify the Overseas Friends of BJP as a political party? 423 00:21:51,820 --> 00:21:55,860 They are, actually, a branch, a type of equation 424 00:21:55,860 --> 00:21:58,660 with the Bharatiya Janata Party, or BJP, from India. 425 00:21:58,660 --> 00:22:03,500 The their job is to promote the policies and views of BJP here. 426 00:22:03,500 --> 00:22:03,740 The their job is to promote There's no other purpose. 427 00:22:03,740 --> 00:22:05,020 There's no other purpose. 428 00:22:05,020 --> 00:22:05,260 And, in fact, There's no other purpose. 429 00:22:05,260 --> 00:22:08,340 And, in fact, the global head is in New Delhi 430 00:22:08,340 --> 00:22:12,300 and it's called Global Overseas Friends of BJP. 431 00:22:12,300 --> 00:22:12,540 and it's called So, they are linked with BJP. 432 00:22:12,540 --> 00:22:15,420 So, they are linked with BJP. 433 00:22:15,420 --> 00:22:18,140 A lot of promises made. They will fix the... 434 00:22:18,140 --> 00:22:20,860 Yadu Singh was a BJP supporter. 435 00:22:20,860 --> 00:22:24,180 They presented themselves as the saviour, 436 00:22:24,180 --> 00:22:27,060 as the people who would do good thing for India. 437 00:22:27,060 --> 00:22:31,700 He's a cardiologist and community leader in Sydney. 438 00:22:31,700 --> 00:22:31,940 He's a cardiologist I'm a Hindu, I'm a practising Hindu, 439 00:22:31,940 --> 00:22:34,180 I'm a Hindu, I'm a practising Hindu, 440 00:22:34,180 --> 00:22:39,700 but a Hindu who does not discriminate or hate anybody else. 441 00:22:39,700 --> 00:22:41,660 Why did you feel the need to say that? 442 00:22:41,660 --> 00:22:44,980 I think it's important. I believe in Hinduism, or Hindu dharma. 443 00:22:44,980 --> 00:22:47,820 Are you worried that Mr Modi and the BJP 444 00:22:47,820 --> 00:22:51,020 are promoting a narrow version of what Hinduism is? 445 00:22:51,020 --> 00:22:54,500 Well, there have been some commentaries in rallies 446 00:22:54,500 --> 00:22:55,780 which were not very good. 447 00:22:58,900 --> 00:23:02,740 Sources have told us the Overseas Friends of the BJP's strategy 448 00:23:02,740 --> 00:23:02,980 Sources have told us the Overseas is to infiltrate politics. 449 00:23:02,980 --> 00:23:04,420 is to infiltrate politics. 450 00:23:04,420 --> 00:23:04,660 So, it wants to get elected is to infiltrate politics. 451 00:23:04,660 --> 00:23:07,260 So, it wants to get elected to local councils first, 452 00:23:07,260 --> 00:23:10,380 then state government and ultimately federal parliament. 453 00:23:10,380 --> 00:23:10,620 then state government So, we started looking for patterns 454 00:23:10,620 --> 00:23:12,300 So, we started looking for patterns 455 00:23:12,300 --> 00:23:12,540 of the organisation's influence So, we started looking for patterns 456 00:23:12,540 --> 00:23:14,860 of the organisation's influence in Australia, 457 00:23:14,860 --> 00:23:18,340 and it led us here to the north-west of Sydney, The Hills Shire, 458 00:23:18,340 --> 00:23:21,100 which is also the federal electorate of Mitchell 459 00:23:21,100 --> 00:23:21,340 which is also the federal electorate held by Alex Hawke. 460 00:23:21,340 --> 00:23:23,300 held by Alex Hawke. 461 00:23:24,380 --> 00:23:28,140 It's great to be here with the Hindu Council of Australia. 462 00:23:28,140 --> 00:23:32,700 We've discovered one of Alex Hawke's closest deputies, Rahul Jethi, 463 00:23:32,700 --> 00:23:37,620 is a founding member of the Overseas Friends of the BJP in Australia. 464 00:23:40,460 --> 00:23:45,660 He's seen here chanting a slogan co-opted by Hindu nationalists 465 00:23:45,660 --> 00:23:45,900 and was seen at organisation events co-opted by Hindu nationalists 466 00:23:45,900 --> 00:23:48,340 and was seen at organisation events 467 00:23:48,340 --> 00:23:50,980 with senior Indian ministers 468 00:23:50,980 --> 00:23:52,140 this year. 469 00:23:52,140 --> 00:23:53,980 J'ai Shri Ram! 470 00:23:55,340 --> 00:23:57,580 He also holds a powerful position 471 00:23:57,580 --> 00:23:59,020 in Alex Hawke's seat 472 00:23:59,020 --> 00:24:01,660 supervising his branches. 473 00:24:01,660 --> 00:24:04,220 Sources say Alex Hawke and his allies 474 00:24:04,220 --> 00:24:04,500 Sources say Alex Hawke lobbied councillors and his allies in The Hills Shire 475 00:24:04,500 --> 00:24:06,940 lobbied councillors in The Hills Shire 476 00:24:06,940 --> 00:24:07,180 lobbied councillors to get Rahul Jethi's wife, Reena, 477 00:24:07,180 --> 00:24:08,740 to get Rahul Jethi's wife, Reena, 478 00:24:08,740 --> 00:24:11,740 the position of deputy mayor in 2019. 479 00:24:11,740 --> 00:24:11,980 the position of deputy mayor Hawke has told us he wasn't involved. 480 00:24:11,980 --> 00:24:15,060 Hawke has told us he wasn't involved. 481 00:24:15,060 --> 00:24:15,300 We've linked Rahul Jethi to a Hawke has told us he wasn't involved. 482 00:24:15,300 --> 00:24:19,620 We've linked Rahul Jethi to a fundraising war chest for Alex Hawke 483 00:24:19,620 --> 00:24:19,860 We've linked Rahul Jethi to a called The Mitchell Club. 484 00:24:19,860 --> 00:24:21,460 called The Mitchell Club. 485 00:24:21,460 --> 00:24:23,500 Four Corners has found this flyer 486 00:24:23,500 --> 00:24:26,620 with an email address accessed by Jethi. 487 00:24:26,620 --> 00:24:30,260 He and Mr Hawke deny Jethi's connected. 488 00:24:30,260 --> 00:24:30,540 It seems He and Mr Hawke this political alliance deny Jethi's connected. 489 00:24:30,540 --> 00:24:32,540 It seems this political alliance 490 00:24:32,540 --> 00:24:32,780 It seems continues to deliver. 491 00:24:32,780 --> 00:24:34,380 continues to deliver. 492 00:24:34,380 --> 00:24:34,620 We've been leaked data continues to deliver. 493 00:24:34,620 --> 00:24:37,620 We've been leaked data from Alex Hawke's seat. 494 00:24:37,620 --> 00:24:40,140 We've analysed the last five years, 495 00:24:40,140 --> 00:24:42,340 and in more than half the branches 496 00:24:42,340 --> 00:24:44,500 Indian-Australians make up 497 00:24:44,500 --> 00:24:46,060 a substantial proportion 498 00:24:46,060 --> 00:24:46,300 a substantial of the new members. 499 00:24:46,300 --> 00:24:48,060 of the new members. 500 00:24:52,260 --> 00:24:56,900 It's almost impossible to get Liberal members to speak about this. 501 00:24:58,660 --> 00:24:59,980 Hello. Hi. How are you? 502 00:24:59,980 --> 00:25:02,180 I'm Avani. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you. 503 00:25:02,180 --> 00:25:03,820 How are you? Come in, please. 504 00:25:04,780 --> 00:25:06,820 Thanks for having me. Welcome. 505 00:25:06,820 --> 00:25:07,060 When I was on executive and... Thanks for having me. Welcome. 506 00:25:07,060 --> 00:25:08,900 When I was on executive and... 507 00:25:08,900 --> 00:25:12,220 Long-time Alex Hawke rival Matthew Camenzuli 508 00:25:12,220 --> 00:25:12,460 was a senior member of the party Matthew Camenzuli 509 00:25:12,460 --> 00:25:14,020 was a senior member of the party 510 00:25:14,020 --> 00:25:17,620 until he was expelled a couple of years ago. 511 00:25:17,620 --> 00:25:17,860 until he was expelled a couple of years ago. Alright, so, I just want to show you 512 00:25:17,860 --> 00:25:19,660 Alright, so, I just want to show you 513 00:25:19,660 --> 00:25:22,780 some of these numbers that we've been given. 514 00:25:22,780 --> 00:25:24,660 What goes through your mind when you see this? 515 00:25:24,660 --> 00:25:24,900 What goes through your mind Insane. Insane. 516 00:25:24,900 --> 00:25:26,260 Insane. Insane. 517 00:25:26,260 --> 00:25:26,500 Why so insane? Insane. Insane. 518 00:25:26,500 --> 00:25:28,380 Why so insane? I mean... 519 00:25:28,380 --> 00:25:28,620 ..that's nuts. Why so insane? I mean... 520 00:25:28,620 --> 00:25:29,380 ..that's nuts. 521 00:25:29,380 --> 00:25:33,300 And the further up and down the list you go, the more you're seeing it. 522 00:25:33,300 --> 00:25:33,540 And the further up and down the list It's out of control. 523 00:25:33,540 --> 00:25:34,500 It's out of control. 524 00:25:35,460 --> 00:25:38,620 We've been told by several recruits 525 00:25:38,620 --> 00:25:41,660 that Rahul Jethi signed them up. 526 00:25:41,660 --> 00:25:43,140 Jethi denies it all. 527 00:25:43,140 --> 00:25:47,380 He says he's just like any other Liberal Party office bearer. 528 00:25:47,380 --> 00:25:47,620 He says he's just like any other It's entirely possible 529 00:25:47,620 --> 00:25:49,020 It's entirely possible 530 00:25:49,020 --> 00:25:51,500 that he could tell Alex Hawke that he can roll him 531 00:25:51,500 --> 00:25:52,940 in his next preselection, 532 00:25:52,940 --> 00:25:54,980 which means he won't be the MP anymore. 533 00:25:54,980 --> 00:25:58,620 I think the Liberal Party should be doing a significant investigation. 534 00:25:58,620 --> 00:26:01,380 The member for Mitchell has to answer to this. 535 00:26:01,380 --> 00:26:03,580 It doesn't look good. It doesn't look good. 536 00:26:03,580 --> 00:26:03,820 It doesn't look good. We have to stop... 537 00:26:03,820 --> 00:26:04,580 We have to stop... 538 00:26:04,580 --> 00:26:05,820 In a statement 539 00:26:05,820 --> 00:26:06,060 Alex Hawke said he complies with all In a statement 540 00:26:06,060 --> 00:26:10,940 Alex Hawke said he complies with all Liberal Party and electoral rules 541 00:26:10,940 --> 00:26:14,500 and said he's modernised his electorate. 542 00:26:14,500 --> 00:26:14,740 and said he's modernised A Liberal Party spokesman 543 00:26:14,740 --> 00:26:16,180 A Liberal Party spokesman 544 00:26:16,180 --> 00:26:16,420 said the Overseas Friends A Liberal Party spokesman 545 00:26:16,420 --> 00:26:19,020 said the Overseas Friends of the BJP Australia 546 00:26:19,020 --> 00:26:19,260 said the Overseas Friends isn't registered as a foreign agent. 547 00:26:19,260 --> 00:26:22,180 isn't registered as a foreign agent. 548 00:26:24,940 --> 00:26:29,500 That's true. The organisation IS operating here without scrutiny. 549 00:26:29,500 --> 00:26:30,740 In this video 550 00:26:30,740 --> 00:26:35,340 they're drumming up votes for a candidate in Southern India. 551 00:26:35,340 --> 00:26:38,780 In the US it's been declared a foreign agent 552 00:26:38,780 --> 00:26:42,580 and has to disclose all political activities. 553 00:26:45,300 --> 00:26:47,540 I've heard that the Overseas Friends of the BJP 554 00:26:47,540 --> 00:26:49,460 is having an event here in Parramatta. 555 00:26:49,460 --> 00:26:52,900 I really want to know what they think about these accusations 556 00:26:52,900 --> 00:26:54,580 that they're trying to infiltrate Australia. 557 00:26:54,580 --> 00:26:54,820 that they're trying So, let's go and ask them. 558 00:26:54,820 --> 00:26:57,220 So, let's go and ask them. 559 00:27:04,340 --> 00:27:05,340 Hello. 560 00:27:05,340 --> 00:27:08,340 We're greeted by one of the group's office bearers, Ankur. 561 00:27:08,340 --> 00:27:09,780 How are you? Are you live? 562 00:27:09,780 --> 00:27:10,020 How are you? At first we're not allowed inside. 563 00:27:10,020 --> 00:27:11,980 At first we're not allowed inside. 564 00:27:11,980 --> 00:27:12,220 Yeah, you gotta turn off. At first we're not allowed inside. 565 00:27:12,220 --> 00:27:14,060 Yeah, you gotta turn off. You gotta turn off. 566 00:27:14,060 --> 00:27:15,820 I'm not... We're not... We're just... 567 00:27:15,820 --> 00:27:18,260 Yeah. Then I wouldn't let you come in. 568 00:27:18,260 --> 00:27:20,500 OK, sure. So, are we able to go inside? 569 00:27:20,500 --> 00:27:21,500 No. You're not. 570 00:27:22,460 --> 00:27:26,260 After some convincing, we're invited in. 571 00:27:26,260 --> 00:27:27,660 They are supporters in there. 572 00:27:27,660 --> 00:27:29,620 What's your aims of your group here? 573 00:27:29,620 --> 00:27:32,980 Nothing. Nothing. Just... Just... We... We are more... 574 00:27:32,980 --> 00:27:34,300 We are a fan group. 575 00:27:34,300 --> 00:27:36,500 It's just like, you know, Manchester United, 576 00:27:36,500 --> 00:27:36,740 It's just like, you know, there is a lot of Aussies, 577 00:27:36,740 --> 00:27:38,020 there is a lot of Aussies, 578 00:27:38,020 --> 00:27:42,100 they might be supporting those particular teams, right? 579 00:27:42,100 --> 00:27:42,860 It's the same thing. 580 00:27:42,860 --> 00:27:45,260 I ask him if the organisation 581 00:27:45,260 --> 00:27:48,700 is trying to infiltrate Australian politics. 582 00:27:48,700 --> 00:27:50,340 No. No. No, not at all. 583 00:27:50,340 --> 00:27:52,580 We are Indian diaspora, you know? We are Indian diaspora. 584 00:27:52,580 --> 00:27:53,980 Obviously, being a citizen, 585 00:27:53,980 --> 00:27:56,180 obviously we exercise our rights here, 586 00:27:56,180 --> 00:27:58,100 but other than that, there is nothing. 587 00:27:58,100 --> 00:27:59,300 There is nothing here. 588 00:27:59,300 --> 00:28:00,580 And what's the aims of... 589 00:28:00,580 --> 00:28:03,380 The BJP has a head of foreign affairs, 590 00:28:03,380 --> 00:28:04,980 who says his role is to coordinate 591 00:28:04,980 --> 00:28:08,140 with the party's global outreach platform, 592 00:28:08,140 --> 00:28:08,380 with the party's the Overseas Friends of the BJP. 593 00:28:08,380 --> 00:28:11,100 the Overseas Friends of the BJP. 594 00:28:11,100 --> 00:28:14,020 Obviously you work with the BJP in India 595 00:28:14,020 --> 00:28:16,260 to kind of organise your events and how you sort of function here. 596 00:28:16,260 --> 00:28:17,940 No. No, not really. 597 00:28:17,940 --> 00:28:19,740 Not really. No connection at all? 598 00:28:19,740 --> 00:28:22,140 No, no. Look, sometime, obviously, 599 00:28:22,140 --> 00:28:27,140 if, a major event like Narendra Modi's, you know, reception and all, 600 00:28:27,140 --> 00:28:27,380 if, a major event like Narendra alright, as a community 601 00:28:27,380 --> 00:28:28,900 alright, as a community 602 00:28:28,900 --> 00:28:32,060 we join hands together with the community and we just help them. 603 00:28:32,060 --> 00:28:33,660 Nothing else. Other than that there is nothing. 604 00:28:33,660 --> 00:28:33,900 Nothing else. Helps the diaspora by the... 605 00:28:33,900 --> 00:28:35,300 Helps the diaspora by the... 606 00:28:35,300 --> 00:28:39,420 Look, our organisation is a non-profit organisation. 607 00:28:39,420 --> 00:28:42,620 So, please, alright? Uh... Respect our... 608 00:28:42,620 --> 00:28:46,020 Then we're told we've overstayed our welcome. 609 00:28:51,380 --> 00:28:56,700 India is not just accused of covert forms of foreign interference. 610 00:28:58,220 --> 00:29:01,820 The most shocking allegations against the Indian government 611 00:29:01,820 --> 00:29:05,700 involve assassinating dissidents on foreign soil. 612 00:29:10,060 --> 00:29:15,220 Moninder Singh's just stepped off a flight from Vancouver. 613 00:29:15,220 --> 00:29:20,540 What other passengers don't know is he's in grave danger. 614 00:29:21,500 --> 00:29:23,380 How are you? Good. How are you? 615 00:29:23,380 --> 00:29:25,980 Nice to meet you. How was the flight? 616 00:29:25,980 --> 00:29:26,220 Nice to meet you. Long. 617 00:29:26,220 --> 00:29:26,980 Long. 618 00:29:26,980 --> 00:29:29,460 A few hours into the flight I started getting notifications 619 00:29:29,460 --> 00:29:30,740 that there's been a duty to warn 620 00:29:30,740 --> 00:29:33,220 that's been provided to another member of the community. 621 00:29:33,220 --> 00:29:34,540 To have these duties to warn's a... 622 00:29:34,540 --> 00:29:37,380 ..yeah, which are imminent threat to assassination. 623 00:29:37,380 --> 00:29:40,780 (HUBBUB) 624 00:29:40,780 --> 00:29:43,900 Moninder is in Australia to sound an alarm. 625 00:29:43,900 --> 00:29:48,380 He says Canadian authorities have told him and eight others 626 00:29:48,380 --> 00:29:51,020 they could be killed at any moment, 627 00:29:51,020 --> 00:29:55,060 including a Canadian Sikh federal MP. 628 00:29:55,060 --> 00:30:00,060 (INDISTINCT CHATTER) 629 00:30:00,060 --> 00:30:03,180 So, we know the risks that we're kind of like taking at the moment. 630 00:30:03,180 --> 00:30:05,700 At the time we leave your house to the moment you get back, 631 00:30:05,700 --> 00:30:05,940 At the time we leave your house and even when you're in your house, 632 00:30:05,940 --> 00:30:07,380 and even when you're in your house, 633 00:30:07,380 --> 00:30:09,700 everything from the doorbell ringing to everything, 634 00:30:09,700 --> 00:30:11,500 everything is coordinated. 635 00:30:12,940 --> 00:30:15,580 Moninder is part of a global movement 636 00:30:15,580 --> 00:30:17,900 calling for the state of Punjab 637 00:30:17,900 --> 00:30:19,420 to break away from India 638 00:30:19,420 --> 00:30:24,420 and become a separate Sikh nation called Khalistan. 639 00:30:26,460 --> 00:30:28,100 It's, like, basically what we think 640 00:30:28,100 --> 00:30:28,340 is that, like, either we'll see It's, like, basically what we think 641 00:30:28,340 --> 00:30:31,420 is that, like, either we'll see Khalistan or we'll die trying. 642 00:30:37,420 --> 00:30:41,780 Last year, Moninder's close friend Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead 643 00:30:41,780 --> 00:30:45,020 outside their local temple in Vancouver. 644 00:30:46,300 --> 00:30:49,100 Canada has accused the Indian government 645 00:30:49,100 --> 00:30:49,340 Canada has accused of orchestrating the assassination. 646 00:30:49,340 --> 00:30:52,540 of orchestrating the assassination. 647 00:30:52,540 --> 00:30:54,780 The Modi administration denies it 648 00:30:54,780 --> 00:30:59,300 and has accused Nijjar of being a terrorist. 649 00:31:00,660 --> 00:31:04,940 Can you tell me about that day that Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed? 650 00:31:04,940 --> 00:31:07,220 It was actually Father's Day 2023. 651 00:31:07,220 --> 00:31:09,740 We had dinner and then, just like any other family, 652 00:31:09,740 --> 00:31:11,540 my kids were playing in the next room, 653 00:31:11,540 --> 00:31:15,540 and I got, like, multiple calls on my phone over and over again. 654 00:31:15,540 --> 00:31:18,420 And I picked up and I heard a panicked kind of voice 655 00:31:18,420 --> 00:31:21,300 on the other side saying, uh... "Bhaji," which means 'brother', 656 00:31:21,300 --> 00:31:23,820 "come right away, they've shot Hardeep." 657 00:31:23,820 --> 00:31:27,780 Moninder rushed to the Sikh temple, or gurdwara, 658 00:31:27,780 --> 00:31:28,020 Moninder rushed to the Sikh temple, where Hardeep was killed. 659 00:31:28,020 --> 00:31:29,860 where Hardeep was killed. 660 00:31:30,980 --> 00:31:35,740 I would oddly say to you I've shed two tears since he's died. 661 00:31:35,740 --> 00:31:35,980 I would oddly say to you And both of them were when I... 662 00:31:35,980 --> 00:31:38,220 And both of them were when I... 663 00:31:38,220 --> 00:31:42,300 ..leaned in to kiss his forehead in his casket. 664 00:31:42,300 --> 00:31:42,540 ..leaned in to kiss his forehead But it's one of those things 665 00:31:42,540 --> 00:31:44,780 But it's one of those things 666 00:31:44,780 --> 00:31:49,060 that, if it starts, it's probably not going to finish, 667 00:31:49,060 --> 00:31:52,300 so, you just don't allow yourself that type of emotion. 668 00:31:52,300 --> 00:31:55,740 You focus on the bigger fight. You focus on what the community needs. 669 00:31:56,700 --> 00:32:00,340 Two months before Hardeep Singh Nijjar's assassination, 670 00:32:00,340 --> 00:32:00,580 Two months before the Indian Foreign Secretary 671 00:32:00,580 --> 00:32:02,420 the Indian Foreign Secretary 672 00:32:02,420 --> 00:32:07,260 sent a secret cable to Indian consulates across North America. 673 00:32:08,300 --> 00:32:09,780 We got a copy of the memo, 674 00:32:09,780 --> 00:32:14,540 and it orders a "sophisticated crackdown" on pro-Khalistan groups 675 00:32:14,540 --> 00:32:18,380 that have been designated as terrorists by the Indian government. 676 00:32:18,380 --> 00:32:20,860 It also calls Nijjar an "extremist" 677 00:32:20,860 --> 00:32:24,180 against whom "concrete measures" need to be taken. 678 00:32:24,180 --> 00:32:24,420 against whom "concrete measures" And it instructs Indian consulates 679 00:32:24,420 --> 00:32:26,980 And it instructs Indian consulates 680 00:32:26,980 --> 00:32:31,180 to work with India's foreign spy service, RAW. 681 00:32:31,180 --> 00:32:34,580 The Indian government has called this document a fake. 682 00:32:40,500 --> 00:32:42,740 After the execution in Canada 683 00:32:42,740 --> 00:32:42,980 the Indian government After the execution in Canada 684 00:32:42,980 --> 00:32:45,740 the Indian government allegedly didn't stop there. 685 00:32:45,740 --> 00:32:49,980 It's accused of going for a much more ambitious target in New York City... 686 00:32:51,740 --> 00:32:54,060 ..this man - Gurpatwant Pannun, 687 00:32:54,060 --> 00:32:54,300 the leader of pro-Khalistan group ..this man - Gurpatwant Pannun, 688 00:32:54,300 --> 00:32:58,780 the leader of pro-Khalistan group Sikhs for Justice. 689 00:33:00,780 --> 00:33:03,700 GURPATWANT PANNUN: This did not come as a surprise to me 690 00:33:03,700 --> 00:33:06,380 or even if something is going to happen to me tomorrow, 691 00:33:06,380 --> 00:33:06,620 or even if something or if I get killed in future, 692 00:33:06,620 --> 00:33:08,580 or if I get killed in future, 693 00:33:08,580 --> 00:33:11,980 that would not be a surprise to anybody. 694 00:33:13,500 --> 00:33:16,340 The only thing we all must know 695 00:33:16,340 --> 00:33:18,540 that this is the Indian system 696 00:33:18,540 --> 00:33:21,900 that is trying to suppress the freedom of speech and expression 697 00:33:21,900 --> 00:33:22,140 that is trying to suppress of pro-Khalistan Sikhs. 698 00:33:22,140 --> 00:33:23,420 of pro-Khalistan Sikhs. 699 00:33:26,060 --> 00:33:31,860 As President Joe Biden welcomed Narendra Modi to Washington DC, 700 00:33:31,860 --> 00:33:35,700 the murder plot against Pannun was ramping up. 701 00:33:37,460 --> 00:33:40,420 Several hundred miles to the north in New York City 702 00:33:40,420 --> 00:33:44,540 you had an assassination plot unfolding. 703 00:33:44,540 --> 00:33:44,780 you had an assassination plot You had an Indian 704 00:33:44,780 --> 00:33:46,340 You had an Indian 705 00:33:46,340 --> 00:33:48,780 intelligence officer in India 706 00:33:48,780 --> 00:33:51,820 urging what he thought was a hit team 707 00:33:51,820 --> 00:33:55,700 to rush ahead and take care of this targeted killing. 708 00:33:56,940 --> 00:33:59,940 It failed dramatically. 709 00:33:59,940 --> 00:34:02,340 It was penetrated from the start. 710 00:34:02,340 --> 00:34:05,300 The Indian government tried to hire a hitman in New York, 711 00:34:05,300 --> 00:34:05,540 The Indian government ultimately turned to somebody 712 00:34:05,540 --> 00:34:07,220 ultimately turned to somebody 713 00:34:07,220 --> 00:34:07,460 who was working as an informant ultimately turned to somebody 714 00:34:07,460 --> 00:34:11,180 who was working as an informant for the US Drug Enforcement Agency. 715 00:34:12,140 --> 00:34:16,420 So, from the very outset, the United States was able to see 716 00:34:16,420 --> 00:34:19,500 right into this operation as it unfolded. 717 00:34:19,500 --> 00:34:21,940 Indian authorities told media 718 00:34:21,940 --> 00:34:26,700 the assassination could have been orchestrated by a rogue operative. 719 00:34:28,340 --> 00:34:30,580 Washington Post reporter Greg Miller 720 00:34:30,580 --> 00:34:33,060 revealed India's top spy chiefs 721 00:34:33,060 --> 00:34:36,700 were implicated in the plot against Pannun. 722 00:34:36,700 --> 00:34:39,740 The way the Indian security system works, 723 00:34:39,740 --> 00:34:41,380 it just seems very unlikely 724 00:34:41,380 --> 00:34:43,380 that you would have an intelligence chief 725 00:34:43,380 --> 00:34:43,620 that you would have and a national security adviser 726 00:34:43,620 --> 00:34:45,580 and a national security adviser 727 00:34:45,580 --> 00:34:49,420 who would set plots like this in motion 728 00:34:49,420 --> 00:34:51,180 without a pretty clear understanding 729 00:34:51,180 --> 00:34:55,260 that ultimately the Prime Minister would be OK with it. 730 00:35:00,060 --> 00:35:02,420 The Indian government has justified 731 00:35:02,420 --> 00:35:02,660 cracking down The Indian government has justified 732 00:35:02,660 --> 00:35:04,620 cracking down on the Khalistan movement 733 00:35:04,620 --> 00:35:07,580 because it sees it as a terror threat. 734 00:35:08,540 --> 00:35:10,980 It points to the '80s and '90s, 735 00:35:10,980 --> 00:35:14,540 when the movement turned into an armed militancy 736 00:35:14,540 --> 00:35:14,780 when the movement and an Air India flight was bombed, 737 00:35:14,780 --> 00:35:17,260 and an Air India flight was bombed, 738 00:35:17,260 --> 00:35:20,380 killing more than 300 people. 739 00:35:21,700 --> 00:35:23,420 The Sikh bodyguards 740 00:35:23,420 --> 00:35:27,780 who assassinated the prime minister, Indira Gandhi, in 1984 741 00:35:27,780 --> 00:35:29,380 were incensed by her decision 742 00:35:29,380 --> 00:35:35,340 to order Indian military to storm Sikhism's holiest site. 743 00:35:35,340 --> 00:35:38,340 ARCHIVE REPORTER: Smoke billowing over New Delhi, reflecting... 744 00:35:38,340 --> 00:35:42,300 Thousands of Sikhs were then killed in reprisals. 745 00:35:42,300 --> 00:35:46,180 (INDISTINCT YELLING) 746 00:35:46,180 --> 00:35:47,700 (SPEAKS IN PUNJAB) 747 00:35:47,700 --> 00:35:51,940 Today, authorities say Gurpatwant Pannun's social-media posts 748 00:35:51,940 --> 00:35:54,340 are threatening India's safety, 749 00:35:54,340 --> 00:35:57,860 especially when he draws on the past. 750 00:36:05,740 --> 00:36:07,740 He denies he's a threat. 751 00:36:08,940 --> 00:36:12,980 What did you mean when you said that it could be life-threatening? 752 00:36:12,980 --> 00:36:13,220 What did you mean when you said I'm stating over and over again, 753 00:36:13,220 --> 00:36:15,140 I'm stating over and over again, 754 00:36:15,140 --> 00:36:17,420 if anybody flies Air India, 755 00:36:17,420 --> 00:36:19,900 you will be funding a Sikh genocide, 756 00:36:19,900 --> 00:36:23,060 which will be life-threatening for your future generations. 757 00:36:23,060 --> 00:36:25,300 So, whether they wanted to assassinate me 758 00:36:25,300 --> 00:36:25,540 So, whether they wanted or whether they want to kill me, 759 00:36:25,540 --> 00:36:26,980 or whether they want to kill me, 760 00:36:26,980 --> 00:36:28,260 I will not stop. 761 00:36:28,260 --> 00:36:32,780 I will continue to campaign for Sikhs' right to self-determination. 762 00:36:32,780 --> 00:36:36,340 I will continue to organise Khalistan referendums. 763 00:36:36,340 --> 00:36:41,020 And, even if the destiny is a death, our destiny is a bullet, 764 00:36:41,020 --> 00:36:41,260 And, even if the destiny I'm ready to take it. 765 00:36:41,260 --> 00:36:42,620 I'm ready to take it. 766 00:36:42,620 --> 00:36:45,660 (TRADITIONAL MUSIC PLAYS) 767 00:36:51,140 --> 00:36:53,540 Sikhs who've migrated to Australia 768 00:36:53,540 --> 00:36:56,620 continue to worship in temples like this. 769 00:36:56,620 --> 00:37:01,180 The fraught history in India led many to migrate here, 770 00:37:01,180 --> 00:37:03,420 including separatists. 771 00:37:03,420 --> 00:37:10,700 (TRADITIONAL MUSIC PLAYS) (MAN SINGS HYMN) 772 00:37:12,420 --> 00:37:17,020 Moninder fears even Australia isn't far enough removed 773 00:37:17,020 --> 00:37:18,900 from the Indian state. 774 00:37:21,740 --> 00:37:23,980 MONINDER SINGH: I think in Australia it's brewing. 775 00:37:23,980 --> 00:37:26,340 They're already here, they're already interfering. 776 00:37:26,340 --> 00:37:29,100 And it's very dangerous for the Sikh community here. 777 00:37:35,380 --> 00:37:36,980 If something isn't checked soon, 778 00:37:36,980 --> 00:37:37,220 that, you know, If something isn't checked soon, 779 00:37:37,220 --> 00:37:39,100 that, you know, a country like Australia 780 00:37:39,100 --> 00:37:42,380 could be in the same position as Canada in a few years. 781 00:37:52,420 --> 00:37:54,460 So, I've heard that Sikh separatists 782 00:37:54,460 --> 00:37:54,700 are feeling the pressure So, I've heard that Sikh separatists 783 00:37:54,700 --> 00:37:57,020 are feeling the pressure of the Indian government 784 00:37:57,020 --> 00:37:57,260 are feeling the pressure all the way here in Australia. 785 00:37:57,260 --> 00:37:58,660 all the way here in Australia. 786 00:37:58,660 --> 00:38:00,820 It's a really sensitive issue for these guys, 787 00:38:00,820 --> 00:38:03,340 but one of them has agreed to speak to me on camera, 788 00:38:03,340 --> 00:38:06,340 so, I'm heading to meet him now. 789 00:38:13,300 --> 00:38:17,380 Harjinder Singh lives in suburban Melbourne with his family. 790 00:38:19,740 --> 00:38:21,660 So, what's out here? 791 00:38:21,660 --> 00:38:23,780 I'll show you the car. 792 00:38:24,740 --> 00:38:27,020 By day he's a taxi driver. 793 00:38:27,020 --> 00:38:29,700 His real passion is his activism 794 00:38:29,700 --> 00:38:33,100 in the Australian chapter of Sikhs for Justice, 795 00:38:33,100 --> 00:38:37,540 the same group as executed leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. 796 00:38:37,540 --> 00:38:37,780 the same group as executed leader I love Khalistan. 797 00:38:37,780 --> 00:38:39,060 I love Khalistan. 798 00:38:39,060 --> 00:38:40,900 It makes me feel happy. 799 00:38:40,900 --> 00:38:44,220 Makes me proud to be a Khalistani, 800 00:38:44,220 --> 00:38:44,460 to put the Khalistan sticker Makes me proud to be a Khalistani, 801 00:38:44,460 --> 00:38:46,940 to put the Khalistan sticker on my car. 802 00:38:46,940 --> 00:38:53,140 So, that's why I put over there so big, so boldly over there. 803 00:38:55,860 --> 00:38:58,300 Harjinder's an Australian citizen. 804 00:38:58,300 --> 00:39:03,100 He says he's been the victim of an intimidation campaign. 805 00:39:03,100 --> 00:39:06,020 At a key moment in the Khalistan movement 806 00:39:06,020 --> 00:39:09,860 Harjinder got a threatening call from a private number. 807 00:39:09,860 --> 00:39:13,380 A couple of months later his phone rang again. 808 00:39:14,340 --> 00:39:16,940 I got a call at midnight and I was scared. 809 00:39:16,940 --> 00:39:20,460 Why... Who calling me this time with no caller ID? 810 00:39:20,460 --> 00:39:23,060 And I got a call on that time - 811 00:39:23,060 --> 00:39:27,260 "You are not listening us," in Punjabi. 812 00:39:27,260 --> 00:39:27,500 "You are not listening us," "You are not listening us now. 813 00:39:27,500 --> 00:39:29,740 "You are not listening us now. 814 00:39:29,740 --> 00:39:31,460 "So, be careful." 815 00:39:31,460 --> 00:39:33,980 Harjinder wasn't deterred. 816 00:39:33,980 --> 00:39:36,460 He kept speaking out about Khalistan. 817 00:39:36,460 --> 00:39:38,060 Then, he says, 818 00:39:38,060 --> 00:39:38,300 Indian authorities sent people Then, he says, 819 00:39:38,300 --> 00:39:42,580 Indian authorities sent people to his parents' home in Punjab. 820 00:39:42,580 --> 00:39:44,300 Some people visited my place - 821 00:39:44,300 --> 00:39:47,020 "We told you to stop him. 822 00:39:47,020 --> 00:39:51,220 "And we got orders from the Indian authorities, 823 00:39:51,220 --> 00:39:56,260 "if anyone's doing opposite, like, against the country," yeah, 824 00:39:56,260 --> 00:39:56,500 "if anyone's doing opposite, "we got orders to kill them." 825 00:39:56,500 --> 00:39:59,020 "we got orders to kill them." 826 00:39:59,020 --> 00:40:03,060 And we... He don't know, he's not sure - is it from the police? 827 00:40:03,060 --> 00:40:03,300 And we... He don't know, he's Is it from intelligence? 828 00:40:03,300 --> 00:40:04,900 Is it from intelligence? 829 00:40:04,900 --> 00:40:06,420 How did your parents react 830 00:40:06,420 --> 00:40:11,300 when these Indian authorities said that your life was in danger? 831 00:40:11,300 --> 00:40:11,540 when these Indian authorities They get scared. 832 00:40:11,540 --> 00:40:12,620 They get scared. 833 00:40:12,620 --> 00:40:13,820 How did you feel 834 00:40:13,820 --> 00:40:14,060 hearing that authorities are going How did you feel 835 00:40:14,060 --> 00:40:17,580 hearing that authorities are going to Harjinder's parents' house 836 00:40:17,580 --> 00:40:17,820 hearing that authorities are going and saying all these things? 837 00:40:17,820 --> 00:40:19,060 and saying all these things? 838 00:40:19,060 --> 00:40:22,500 If they're targeting him, obviously they targeting me as well. 839 00:40:22,500 --> 00:40:24,820 I don't know. If something happened... 840 00:40:25,780 --> 00:40:28,020 ..I don't know. It's scary. 841 00:40:28,020 --> 00:40:30,900 I feel so scared sometimes, even say, "Oh, Harry..." 842 00:40:30,900 --> 00:40:35,180 He say, "Don't worry," like, you know, "We're not doing wrong things. 843 00:40:36,100 --> 00:40:40,100 We found more than six other Australians in the movement 844 00:40:40,100 --> 00:40:44,660 who say they're also being threatened by Indian authorities. 845 00:40:47,140 --> 00:40:50,180 (BIRDS TWITTER) 846 00:40:55,500 --> 00:41:00,140 The next part of my investigation brings me to the Australian capital 847 00:41:00,140 --> 00:41:00,420 The next part of my investigation brings me to the Australian capital and the nerve centre of the country's intelligence services. 848 00:41:00,420 --> 00:41:05,300 and the nerve centre of the country's intelligence services. 849 00:41:05,300 --> 00:41:05,540 and the nerve centre of It's here in 2021 850 00:41:05,540 --> 00:41:07,420 It's here in 2021 851 00:41:07,420 --> 00:41:10,420 that the head of ASIO, Mike Burgess, 852 00:41:10,420 --> 00:41:10,660 announced a serious incursion that the head of ASIO, Mike Burgess, 853 00:41:10,660 --> 00:41:14,620 announced a serious incursion on our sovereignty. 854 00:41:15,740 --> 00:41:18,740 (APPLAUSE) 855 00:41:18,740 --> 00:41:22,460 One of our investigations focused on a nest of spies 856 00:41:22,460 --> 00:41:24,740 from a particular foreign intelligence service 857 00:41:24,740 --> 00:41:24,980 from a particular that was operating in our country. 858 00:41:24,980 --> 00:41:26,940 that was operating in our country. 859 00:41:26,940 --> 00:41:29,420 These spies developed targeted relationships 860 00:41:29,420 --> 00:41:31,660 with current and former politicians, 861 00:41:31,660 --> 00:41:35,140 a foreign embassy and a state police service. 862 00:41:35,140 --> 00:41:37,660 They monitored their country's diaspora community. 863 00:41:37,660 --> 00:41:40,020 We confronted the foreign spies 864 00:41:40,020 --> 00:41:40,260 and quietly and professionally We confronted the foreign spies 865 00:41:40,260 --> 00:41:44,540 and quietly and professionally removed them from our country. 866 00:41:44,540 --> 00:41:46,260 It's fertile ground for sharing... 867 00:41:46,260 --> 00:41:48,860 Burgess didn't name the country. 868 00:41:48,860 --> 00:41:52,020 But the Washington Post did. 869 00:41:52,020 --> 00:41:54,940 GREG MILLER: That was, I think, also quite troubling 870 00:41:54,940 --> 00:41:55,180 GREG MILLER: That was, I think, that India, a presumed ally, 871 00:41:55,180 --> 00:41:58,260 that India, a presumed ally, 872 00:41:58,260 --> 00:42:00,020 another democracy, 873 00:42:00,020 --> 00:42:00,260 would be trying another democracy, 874 00:42:00,260 --> 00:42:03,540 would be trying to get at information 875 00:42:03,540 --> 00:42:08,900 that would apparently identify vulnerabilities in Australia. 876 00:42:10,260 --> 00:42:15,140 Greens senator David Shoebridge has been following this case closely. 877 00:42:15,140 --> 00:42:16,300 DAVID SHOEBRIDGE: I was shocked. 878 00:42:16,300 --> 00:42:18,260 It's not the conduct you'd expect from a friendly nation, 879 00:42:18,260 --> 00:42:19,740 but remember this is an administration, 880 00:42:19,740 --> 00:42:19,980 but remember the BJP administration, 881 00:42:19,980 --> 00:42:21,420 the BJP administration, 882 00:42:21,420 --> 00:42:22,660 that has been involved 883 00:42:22,660 --> 00:42:26,740 in the assassination of a Sikh leader in Canada. 884 00:42:26,740 --> 00:42:30,100 When you reflect upon that very recent history, 885 00:42:30,100 --> 00:42:31,740 it doesn't seem at all out of character. 886 00:42:31,740 --> 00:42:35,780 It's part of what I think is a very disturbing trend we've seen. 887 00:42:38,140 --> 00:42:40,700 This is the Indian High Commission in Canberra, 888 00:42:40,700 --> 00:42:43,100 and it's where the Modi government's representatives work 889 00:42:43,100 --> 00:42:43,340 and it's where the Modi government's here in the country. 890 00:42:43,340 --> 00:42:44,700 here in the country. 891 00:42:44,700 --> 00:42:47,140 It's also where the Indian spies 892 00:42:47,140 --> 00:42:47,380 were pretending It's also where the Indian spies 893 00:42:47,380 --> 00:42:49,900 were pretending to be unsuspecting diplomats. 894 00:42:49,900 --> 00:42:51,660 And through the course of my investigation 895 00:42:51,660 --> 00:42:54,180 I found out something that's pretty surprising. 896 00:42:54,180 --> 00:42:58,420 It was previously reported that just two Indian intelligence operatives 897 00:42:58,420 --> 00:43:00,220 were asked to leave the country. 898 00:43:00,220 --> 00:43:05,140 We've now confirmed that at least four were kicked out of Australia. 899 00:43:10,420 --> 00:43:13,340 The expulsions were done secretly, 900 00:43:13,340 --> 00:43:18,180 and the intelligence operatives were asked to leave one by one. 901 00:43:18,180 --> 00:43:20,300 The Modi government thought it got away 902 00:43:20,300 --> 00:43:20,540 The Modi government without any public embarrassment. 903 00:43:20,540 --> 00:43:23,100 without any public embarrassment. 904 00:43:26,380 --> 00:43:28,900 Australia should have condemned it publicly at the time. 905 00:43:28,900 --> 00:43:29,140 Australia should have That not only would've been good 906 00:43:29,140 --> 00:43:30,460 That not only would've been good 907 00:43:30,460 --> 00:43:34,580 to have an honest baseline for our relationship with India, 908 00:43:34,580 --> 00:43:36,980 but it would've also sent a message to the diaspora communities here 909 00:43:36,980 --> 00:43:37,220 but it would've also sent a message that "We've got your back." 910 00:43:37,220 --> 00:43:38,540 that "We've got your back." 911 00:43:41,020 --> 00:43:45,980 The Indian government didn't get back to our requests for a response. 912 00:43:47,100 --> 00:43:49,820 Australian ministers declined an interview. 913 00:43:49,820 --> 00:43:50,060 Australian ministers In a statement a spokesperson said 914 00:43:50,060 --> 00:43:52,300 In a statement a spokesperson said 915 00:43:52,300 --> 00:43:56,660 the government is "deeply concerned by these allegations." 916 00:43:56,660 --> 00:44:01,460 They said the government "doesn't tolerate threats of violence." 917 00:44:01,460 --> 00:44:04,340 PENNY WONG: I think the Indian diaspora has a range of views, 918 00:44:04,340 --> 00:44:04,580 PENNY WONG: I think the Indian and we have made clear, uh... 919 00:44:04,580 --> 00:44:06,500 and we have made clear, uh... 920 00:44:06,500 --> 00:44:06,740 ..in relation and we have made clear, uh... 921 00:44:06,740 --> 00:44:09,060 ..in relation to democratic debate in Australia 922 00:44:09,060 --> 00:44:09,300 ..in relation that, uh...the non... 923 00:44:09,300 --> 00:44:11,860 that, uh...the non... 924 00:44:11,860 --> 00:44:14,700 ..the peaceful expression of different views 925 00:44:14,700 --> 00:44:16,580 is a key part of Australia's democracy. 926 00:44:17,540 --> 00:44:19,140 Unlike Canada, 927 00:44:19,140 --> 00:44:22,140 Australia hasn't put substantial brakes 928 00:44:22,140 --> 00:44:24,860 on the relationship with India. 929 00:44:28,340 --> 00:44:31,060 Isn't it fair that the Australian government 930 00:44:31,060 --> 00:44:33,420 is pursuing this strong relationship with India, 931 00:44:33,420 --> 00:44:33,660 is pursuing this strong relationship considering it's become 932 00:44:33,660 --> 00:44:34,620 considering it's become 933 00:44:34,620 --> 00:44:37,940 such an economic and technological powerhouse? 934 00:44:37,940 --> 00:44:41,140 Well, I think it's absolutely a good strategy 935 00:44:41,140 --> 00:44:43,500 to forge close ties with India, 936 00:44:43,500 --> 00:44:47,260 to reach out as a friend to India. 937 00:44:47,260 --> 00:44:51,780 But it's bloody foolhardy to do it and not protect yourself 938 00:44:51,780 --> 00:44:54,620 when you know there's an active threat in play. 939 00:44:54,620 --> 00:44:56,620 We have a very recent case study in Australian history 940 00:44:56,620 --> 00:44:59,820 about what happens when all you see is money and trade 941 00:44:59,820 --> 00:45:00,060 about what happens when all you see and a growth economy, 942 00:45:00,060 --> 00:45:01,300 and a growth economy, 943 00:45:01,300 --> 00:45:03,620 and you don't see any of the kind of concerns. 944 00:45:03,620 --> 00:45:05,340 And it's what we did with China. 945 00:45:05,340 --> 00:45:08,900 It turns out we're repeating many of the same mistakes with India, 946 00:45:08,900 --> 00:45:12,380 and that's just setting us up for trouble. 947 00:45:13,740 --> 00:45:17,100 (LAUGHTER, CHATTER) 948 00:45:17,100 --> 00:45:20,100 It's judgement day for Narendra Modi, 949 00:45:20,100 --> 00:45:22,700 and across Australia and the world 950 00:45:22,700 --> 00:45:22,940 people are glued to screens and across Australia and the world 951 00:45:22,940 --> 00:45:28,100 people are glued to screens watching election results roll in. 952 00:45:28,100 --> 00:45:28,340 people are glued to screens (CROWD CHANTS IN HINDI) 953 00:45:28,340 --> 00:45:31,580 (CROWD CHANTS IN HINDI) 954 00:45:31,580 --> 00:45:33,620 (CHEERING) 955 00:45:33,620 --> 00:45:36,780 (SPEAKS INDISTINCTLY) It is. Yeah. 956 00:45:37,740 --> 00:45:41,500 Modi said he'd win this election in a landslide, 957 00:45:41,500 --> 00:45:41,740 Modi said he'd win this election but he could barely make a majority. 958 00:45:41,740 --> 00:45:44,420 but he could barely make a majority. 959 00:45:44,420 --> 00:45:46,660 (CHEERING) 960 00:45:46,660 --> 00:45:46,900 It's a defeat for this leader (CHEERING) 961 00:45:46,900 --> 00:45:51,180 It's a defeat for this leader who once seemed invincible. 962 00:45:51,180 --> 00:45:53,700 Maybe the result will take Modi down a notch 963 00:45:53,700 --> 00:45:58,540 and force him to respect India's strong democratic foundations. 964 00:45:59,500 --> 00:46:01,940 Or he could crack down even more, 965 00:46:01,940 --> 00:46:04,020 changing India forever... 966 00:46:04,980 --> 00:46:08,980 ..and testing Australia's desire to stay close 967 00:46:08,980 --> 00:46:12,860 even at the expense of its own citizens. 968 00:46:16,300 --> 00:46:18,340 (THEME MUSIC PLAYS) 969 00:46:33,940 --> 00:46:35,660 Captions by Red Bee Media 970 00:46:35,660 --> 00:46:35,900 Copyright Australian Broadcasting Corporation Captions by Red Bee Media 971 00:46:35,900 --> 00:46:37,860 Copyright Australian Broadcasting Corporation