Canada has cautioned its citizens about the potential for ‘intimidation or harassment’ in India.The advisory mentioned that the Canadian Consulates General in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai would temporarily halt their in-person operations.
Canada issued an updated travel advisory, alerting its citizens to the potential for “anti-Canada protests” and the risk of “intimidation or harassment” following the announcement of the withdrawal of 41 diplomats from India on Friday.
The advisory indicated that the Canadian Consulates General in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai would temporarily cease in-person operations. It also advised citizens to seek consular assistance and additional information from the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi.
Mélanie Joly, the Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, revealed that the diplomats were returning to Canada in response to New Delhi’s ultimatum to strip them of diplomatic immunity if they stayed beyond Friday. She explained that, as a result, all in-person services at consulates would be temporarily halted until further notice.
The advisory, within the Safety and Security section, referenced “recent developments in Canada and in India.” It further mentioned the presence of calls for protests and a certain level of unfavorable sentiment towards Canada in both traditional and social media. The advisory warned, “Demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests, could potentially take place, and Canadians may face the risk of intimidation or harassment.” This update followed Minister Joly’s press conference in Ottawa.
While in Delhi and the National Capital Region, it’s advisable to maintain a low profile with strangers and refrain from sharing personal information with unfamiliar individuals. It’s also recommended to steer clear of crowded locations, including public transportation. For added safety, always travel with a companion and inform a trusted friend or family member about your travel plans.”
It’s important to note that India ceased the processing of visas for Canadians indefinitely following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement on September 18, which mentioned “credible allegations” of a potential connection to Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18.
Nijjar, whom India regarded as a terrorist, faced no charges in Canada. He was fatally shot in the parking lot of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara, which he presided over in Surrey, British Columbia.
