Canada issues updated travel advisory for India, urges vigilance amid rising tensions

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau/ Pic/AFP

In light of recent developments and growing tensions, the Canadian government has updated its travel advisory for its citizens in India, urging them to "remain vigilant and exercise caution". This decision comes as Canada faces calls for protests and encounters negative sentiment on social media, particularly related to India.

The strained relations between India and Canada stem from allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who suggested Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has vehemently denied these allegations, dismissing them as "absurd and motivated." Nijjar, a designated terrorist in India, was killed in Surrey, Canada, on June 18.

According to a report in ANI, the revised travel advisory from the Canadian government emphasizes the need for caution, given the recent developments in both countries. It states, "In the context of recent developments in Canada and in India, there are calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada on social media. Please remain vigilant and exercise caution."

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Last week, India issued a similar advisory for its nationals and students residing in Canada. It advised Indian citizens and students to be cautious and avoid areas and venues in Canada where anti-India activities have been on the rise.

In response to these developments, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India issued a statement urging Indian nationals and students in Canada to exercise utmost caution. The MEA cited the growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada as reasons for concern.

The statement also noted that threats had been directed at Indian diplomats and members of the Indian community who oppose anti-India agendas. As a result, Indian nationals and students in Canada were advised to steer clear of regions and potential venues where such incidents have occurred, the report stated.

Additionally, Indian nationals and students in Canada were encouraged to register with the High Commission of India in Ottawa or the Consulates General of India in Toronto and Vancouver through the MADAD portal madad.gov.in. This registration would enable Indian diplomatic missions to maintain contact with Indian citizens in Canada in case of emergencies or untoward incidents.

The MEA affirmed that Indian diplomatic missions in Canada would continue to collaborate with Canadian authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the country.