New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday issued an advisory asking Indian people in Canada to remain vigilant amid increase in hate crimes. The MEA asked Indians to exercise due caution to avoid hate crimes, sectarian violence and anti-India activities. The ministry said that it taken up the matter with Canadian authorities and has requested to probe the crimes.
The MEA, in a statement, said, “There has been a sharp increase in incidents of hate crimes, sectarian violence and anti-India activities in Canada. The Ministry of External Affairs and our High Commission/Consulates General in Canada have taken up these incidents with the Canadian authorities and requested them to investigate the said crimes and take appropriate action. The perpetrators of these crimes have not been brought to justice so far in Canada.”
It further said that in view of the increasing incidences of crimes as described above, Indian nationals and students from India in Canada and those proceeding to Canada for travel/education are advised to exercise due caution and remain vigilant.
“Indian nationals and students from India in Canada may 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. Registration would enable the High Commission and the Consulates General to better connect with Indian citizens in Canada in the event of any requirement or emergency,” it added.
The MEA issued advisory amid row between India and Canada over the recent holding of a so-called referendum by ‘pro-Khalistan’ elements on creating an independent homeland for Sikhs. India termed the so-called Khalistan referendum conducted by separatist groups as a ‘farcical exercise’.
