A storm brewed in Australia on Wednesday as a string of senior ministers declined to confirm reports of an alleged “nest” of Indian spies being uncovered and expelled from the country, raising concerns that the revelations could strain the burgeoning alliance between the two nations.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and several key ministers, including those overseeing foreign affairs, defence, and treasury, sidestepped questions regarding allegations that Indian intelligence operatives attempted to pilfer defence secrets and surveil expatriate communities in 2020. Albanese cited a policy of refraining from commenting on intelligence matters in response to inquiries prompted by the public broadcaster ABC, which had cited unnamed “national security and government figures” in its report.

While Australian intelligence agencies had disclosed the discovery of a “nest of spies” in 2021 and subsequently expelled the foreign agents, they had remained tight-lipped about their origin. However, recent claims by local media, including ABC, have pointed fingers at Indian intelligence as the source behind the covert operations.

The timing of these revelations poses a diplomatic quandary for Canberra, especially considering the strengthening security partnership between India and Australia, exemplified by their participation in the Quad security alliance alongside the United States and Japan. Prime Minister Albanese’s warm overtures toward Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the latter’s visit to Australia last year underscored the significance of the bilateral relationship, despite concerns over the policies of Modi’s Hindu-nationalist government.

Amidst calls to address foreign interference and safeguard democratic principles, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the need to uphold the resilience of the nation’s democracy, refraining from delving into specifics on intelligence matters. Treasurer Jim Chalmers echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with India while avoiding explicit commentary on the espionage allegations.

Australian intelligence chief Mike Burgess had previously accused the expelled spies of attempting to gather sensitive information and cultivate relationships with key figures, including politicians and embassy staff. Despite repeated inquiries, the Indian High Commission refrained from offering any comment on the matter, leaving the situation ripe for further speculation and diplomatic maneuvering.

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