The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued an advisory for Indian nationals and students in Canada, urging them to exercise utmost caution in view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in the country.
The advisory states that threats have particularly targeted Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community who oppose the anti-India agenda. Indian nationals are therefore advised to avoid travelling to regions and potential venues in Canada that have seen such incidents.
The MEA also advised Indian students in particular to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant. Indian nationals and students from India in Canada must also register with the High Commission of India in Ottawa or Consulates General of India in Toronto and Vancouver through their respective websites, or the MADAD portal madad.gov.in.
The advisory comes at a time when there has been an increase in incidents of hate crimes and violence against Indians in Canada. In recent months, there have been reports of Indian temples being vandalized, Indian students being assaulted, and Indian businesses being targeted.
The Indian government has condemned these incidents and has urged the Canadian government to take steps to protect the Indian community in Canada. However, the Canadian government has been criticized for its slow response to these incidents.
Indian nationals and students in Canada should be aware of the security situation and take necessary precautions to stay safe. They should avoid travelling to areas where there is a risk of violence, and they should be vigilant at all times. They should also register with the Indian High Commission or Consulates General in Canada so that they can be contacted in the event of an emergency.