New Delhi: India has issued a stern warning to its citizens traveling or residing in Canada, citing a rise in anti-India activities and hate crimes in the North American country. The advisory, released by the Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday, urged Indian nationals and students to exercise utmost caution and avoid areas where violence against Indians has been reported.
The government said that it has brought several incidents of threats and attacks on Indian diplomats and members of the Indian community to the attention of Canadian authorities, but no action has been taken against the perpetrators. The advisory also mentioned the recent referendum held by Sikh separatists in Canada, calling it a “farcical exercise” by “extremists and radical elements”.
The advisory came a day after Canada issued a similar warning to its citizens traveling to India, citing the Covid-19 situation and the possibility of civil unrest. The two countries have been at odds over several issues, including the farmers’ protests in India, the Khalistan movement in Canada, and the extradition of fugitives wanted by India.