A revised travel advisory for India, issued by Canada, warns of protests and negative sentiment, urging Canadians to exercise caution, particularly in Delhi, where demonstrations may take place.
In a rapidly evolving scenario, Canada has temporarily suspended visa and consular services in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai, directing applicants to the Canadian High Commission in Delhi. Meanwhile, Canada issued an updated travel advisory for India, warning of protests and negative sentiment. Canadians in India are urged to exercise caution, particularly in Delhi, where demonstrations may occur. The visa processing landscape in India sees Canada and the UK returning to pre-Covid levels, while the United States faces delays. Additionally, India’s decision to revoke diplomatic immunities for many Canadian diplomats has strained bilateral relations, stemming from allegations by Prime Minister Trudeau regarding India’s involvement with a Khalistani terrorist.
Canada Suspends Visa Services in Several Indian Cities
Canada has temporarily suspended visa and in-person consular services in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai, impacting visa processing for Canada in India. These services will now be available exclusively at the Canadian High Commission in Delhi. It’s worth noting that India had also recently suspended visa processing in Canada.
Canada’s India Travel Advisory: Protest Concerns
On October 19, Canada updated its travel advisory for India, noting the presence of calls for protests and an adverse sentiment towards Canada in both traditional media and social media platforms.
Caution for Canadians in India: Safety and Demonstrations
While in Delhi and the National Capital Region, Canadians should be aware that demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests, may take place. It is advisable to maintain a low profile with unfamiliar individuals and refrain from disclosing personal information to ensure your personal safety.
Travel Safely in India: Avoid Crowds, Share Plans
To ensure your safety while in India, it’s advisable to avoid crowded areas, including public transportation. Always travel with a companion and inform a friend or family member of your travel plans. The updated travel advisory states, “Consular services in person are temporarily unavailable in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. However, consular services in person at the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi will remain available.”
Canada & UK Lead Visa Processing in India Amid COVID
Within the travel industry, Canada and the UK stand out as countries in India that have restored visa processing to pre-Covid levels and, in some cases, surpassed them. Meanwhile, the United States continues to experience significantly extended wait times for visitor visa interviews, and numerous key Schengen countries have imposed strict appointment limits in this region.
Canadian Foreign Minister on Diplomatic Immunities in India
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has confirmed that India has formally communicated its intention to unilaterally revoke diplomatic immunities for all but 21 Canadian diplomats and their dependents in Delhi by October 20. This action puts 41 Canadian diplomats and 42 dependents at risk, as their immunities could be removed arbitrarily. Joly acknowledged the potential impact of this decision on Canadian operations in India, stating that it would disrupt services at Consulates in both countries. Consequently, all in-person services at the Consulates in Chandigarh, Mumbai, and Bangalore will be temporarily suspended.
India-Canada Relations Strained Over Allegations
Last month, relations between India and Canada deteriorated following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s accusation of the Indian government’s involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. India vehemently denied these allegations and emphasized that the central concern in their relationship with Canada revolves around the safe haven that “terrorists and criminal elements” have found in the country.
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