Canada Issues Travel Advisory Following Diplomatic Row with India

Canada has updated its travel advisory, cautioning citizens about potential “anti-Canada protests” and the risk of “intimidation or harassment.” 

This advisory comes in the wake of the withdrawal of 41 Canadian diplomats from India, a move that has strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Temporary Suspension of In-Person Consulate Operations:

The Consulates General of Canada in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai have temporarily suspended in-person operations. 

Canadian citizens are advised to seek consular assistance and information from the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi.

Diplomatic Immunity Dilemma:

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mélanie Joly, revealed that diplomats were returning to Canada due to New Delhi’s request to strip them of diplomatic immunity if they remained in India beyond a certain date. 

As a result, in-person services at consulates have been temporarily paused until further notice.

Safety and Security Concerns:

The updated travel advisory references “recent developments in Canada and India” and warns of potential protests, including those against Canada, and the possibility of Canadians encountering intimidation or harassment. 

Travelers are urged to maintain a low profile with strangers, avoid crowded areas, and share their travel plans with friends or family.

Visa Processing Suspension:

Following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement in September regarding “credible allegations” of a potential link to Indian agents in a murder case, India has indefinitely halted the processing of visas for Canadians. 

The case involves killing Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a matter of disagreement between the two nations.

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