Indian government issues advisory to its nationals in Canada, asks to remain connected with its missions

Kathmandu, Sept 20: The government of India has issued an advisory asking Indian nationals in Canada to exercise utmost caution and avoid traveling there.

The strongly worded advisory, while criticising the government of Canada in between the lines as condoning hate crimes and criminal violence, has also asked its nationals to register with the Indian High Commission and its consulates general offices there.

‘In view of growing anti-India and politically condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating to travel are urged to exercise utmost caution,’ the advisory reads.

‘Recently, threats have particularly targeted Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community who oppose the anti-Indian agenda’, it further said, adding ‘Indian nationals are therefore advised to avoid traveling to regions and potential venues in Canada that have seen such incidents.’

The marked deterioration in Indo-Canada relation is an outcome of Prime Minister Trudeau alleging Indian hand in the killing of a pro-Khalistani Sikh leader in June in British Columbia, through his speech in Parliament two days ago, and expulsion of an Indian diplomat which the government of India responded in similar way.

India, while rejecting the allegations from the highest authority in Canada, has made counter allegations about the Canadian government patronising terrorist activities by the Pro-Khalistani elements in Canada.

The advisory said that the Indian High Commission and consulates General offices would continue to be in contact with the Canadian authorities to ensure safety and well-being of the Indian community in Canada.

‘Given the deteriorating security environment in Canada, Indian students in particular are advised to excercise caution and remain vigilant,’ it said.

It has also asked Indian nationals to register with the Indian High Commission and consulates general offices through their respective websites which, it said, would enable them to connect with Indian citizens in Canada in the event of emergency or untoward incident.