In a significant development amid escalating tensions between India and Canada, the Consulate General of India in Toronto has announced an extension of consular services for Indian nationals residing in Canada. These extended services encompass a range of vital functions, including passport issuance, attestation, police clearance certificate issuance, and passport renewal.
In a statement shared on social media, the Consulate General of India in Toronto underscored that consular services for Indian citizens in Canada, such as Passport issuance, Passport renewal, Police Clearance Certificate, Attestation, and more, continue to be extended.
The move comes in the wake of recent strained diplomatic relations between the two nations, with Canada reducing its number of diplomats in India due to security concerns. Meanwhile, India appeared to suspend visas for Canadians following a diplomatic row concerning the murder of a Sikh activist.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a cautionary advisory to Indian citizens, especially students in Canada and those planning to visit the country, in response to the recent tensions. The advisory urges Indian nationals to exercise caution and avoid areas in Canada witnessing increased anti-India activities.
“In view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating travel are urged to exercise utmost caution. Recently, threats have particularly targeted Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community who oppose the anti-India agenda,” the MEA stated in a press release.
The MEA emphasized the importance of Indian nationals and students in Canada registering with either the High Commission of India in Ottawa or the Consulates General of India in Toronto and Vancouver. This registration, available through official websites or the MADAD portal, enhances the ability to establish effective communication with Indian citizens in Canada during emergencies or adverse situations.
These developments followed allegations by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, accusing the Indian government of involvement in the fatal shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, designated as a terrorist by India. India refuted these allegations, leading to the expulsion of a senior Canadian diplomat from India.
In a time marked by heightened tensions, the extension of consular services by the Consulate General of India in Toronto aims to provide support and assistance to Indian citizens residing in Canada, fostering diplomatic engagement and ensuring their safety and well-being.
