India dismisses reports of visa delays for Indian-origin Canadians as ‘dis-information’

India on Friday dismissed reports of visa delays for Indian-origin Canadians as ‘dis-information’.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal while addressing reports about delays in visa issuance by the Indian High Commission rejected the allegations saying, “We have seen the media report. It is yet another example of the Canadian media's disinformation to malign India.”

He clarified that granting visas is a sovereign function of the Indian government. "We have the legitimate right to deny visas to those who undermine our territorial integrity.”

The commentary in the Canadian media on this matter amounts to foreign interference in India's sovereign affairs, he said.

Jaiswal was responding to questions on reports in Canada that claimed that New Delhi has been denying visas to pro-Khalistan Canadian citizens unless they explicitly denounce their support for separatism.

Also, the Indian government has raised concerns with Canadian authorities following the murders of three Indian students in Canada last week, Jaiswal said.

Jaiswal called the incidents "unfortunate tragedies" and extended condolences to the victims' families. "We are saddened at these terrible tragedies that have struck our nationals in Canada," he said.

The Indian High Commission in Ottawa and consulates in Toronto and Vancouver have been offering assistance. "Our High Commission and Consulates are extending all possible help in the matter," Jaiswal added.

The Indian missions in Canada are in contact with local authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. Jaiswal noted that the safety and welfare of Indian nationals in Canada remained a priority.

"We have also issued an advisory for our nationals and Indian students to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant in view of the deteriorating security environment in Canada due to the growing incidence of hate crimes and criminal violence," the MEA spokesperson added.

Over 4,70,000 Indian students are currently studying in Canada, according to official data.

MEA reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of Indian citizens abroad while continuing discussions with Canadian authorities on the issues faced by the Indian community.