New Delhi: In the wake of escalating tensions between Canada and India following the recent killing of a Khalistani terrorist on Canadian soil, Canada has taken a significant step by updating its travel advisory for its citizens in India. The advisory now urges Canadian citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” while in India.
This heightened advisory was issued just hours after Canada made the decision to withdraw 41 diplomats and shut down most of its embassies and consulates in India. The move underscores the deepening divide between the two nations.
“In the context of recent developments in Canada and India, there are calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada in traditional media and on social media. Demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests, could occur and Canadians may be subjected to intimidation or harassment. In Delhi and the National Capital Region, you should keep a low profile with strangers, and not share your personal information with them,” the advisory added.
Furthermore, Canada has temporarily paused all in-person services at its consulates in Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru. Citizens residing in or visiting these cities have been advised to exercise caution.
“Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Criminals may target foreigners, especially in major cities and tourist areas,” the advisory read, urging citizens to be vigilant in crowded locations and not carry large sums of money.
The strained relations between India and Canada intensified after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly linked Indian intelligence to the Khalistani terrorist’s killing, an allegation India has vehemently denied. The situation has resulted in both nations expelling senior diplomats and issuing travel advisories to their respective citizens.
Last month, India advised its citizens living in Canada and those planning to travel there to exercise “utmost caution” due to the increasing anti-India activities and “politically-condoned” hate crimes in the North American country. The diplomatic standoff between India and Canada continues to escalate, raising concerns of a possible major confrontation.
The situation remains dynamic, and both nations are closely monitoring developments.
