India resorted to the unusual step of issuing an advisory asking its nationals in Canada to “exercise due caution and remain vigilant” against the backdrop of what it said was a “sharp increase” in hate crimes, sectarian violence and anti-India activities.
The advisory from the external affairs ministry came amid a diplomatic row between India and Canada over the recent holding of a so-called referendum by “pro-Khalistan” elements on creating an independent homeland for Sikhs. The activities of pro-Khalistan elements in Canada have been an irritant in bilateral ties in recent years.
“There has been a sharp increase in incidents of hate crimes, sectarian violence and anti-India activities in Canada,” the advisory for Indian nationals and students in Canada stated. “In view of the increasing incidences of crimes as described above, Indian nationals and students from India in Canada and those proceeding to Canada for travel/education are advised to exercise due caution and remain vigilant,” it said.
The external affairs ministry and India’s high commission and consulates in Canada have taken up these incidents with Canadian authorities and asked them to investigate the “crimes and take appropriate action”. The advisory added: “The perpetrators of these crimes have not been brought to justice so far in Canada.”
The advisory said Indian nationals and students in Canada may register with the high commission in Ottawa or consulates in Toronto and Vancouver through their websites or the MADAD portal at madad.gov.in. Such registration will allow the Indian missions to “better connect with Indian citizens in Canada in the event of any requirement or emergency”.
