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Canada issues travel advisory for citizens as India heads to polls
The advisory particularly warned citizens in cities where consular services were unavailable to exercise caution
Canada has heightened the degree of caution in an update to its travel advisory for India / Canva
Canada issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise caution in India in view of the potential demonstrations that could take place as voting for the Lok Sabha elections commence from Apr.19.
“General elections are scheduled to take place between April 19 and June 1, 2024. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections,” an update issued to the advisory on Apr.17 read.
The advisory cautioned Canadians about possible disruptions to traffic and public transportation during the electoral process. It also warned of the potential imposition of curfews without prior notice.
Travellers were advised to steer clear of areas where demonstrations and large gatherings might occur to ensure their safety. Additionally, travellers were cautioned to exercise caution in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai, as consular services in-person are currently unavailable in those areas.
This advisory follows lingering tensions between Canada and India, originating from remarks made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in the House of Commons last year. Trudeau had referenced "credible allegations" linking Indian agents to the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18, 2023, in Surrey, British Columbia.
The update retained previous warnings issued in the past year, highlighting the potential for protests and negative sentiment towards Canada in both traditional and social media channels. It also reiterated advice for Canadians to maintain a low profile in Delhi and the National Capital Region, suggesting avoidance of crowded areas and public transportation.
The strained diplomatic relations between Canada and India were underscored last October when 41 Canadian diplomats were withdrawn from India. This action followed a declaration from New Delhi indicating that the diplomats would lose their diplomatic immunity if they remained. While Canada condemned this move as a mass expulsion, India argued it sought parity in diplomatic numbers.
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