Not true: Govt on visa snub to Canadian Sikhs

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday dismissed reports of visa delays for Indian-origin Canadians as “disinformation”. “We have seen the reports. It is yet another example of the Canadian media’s disinformation to malign India,” said Randhir Jaiswal, MEA spokesperson.

Flags concern over murder of 3 students

• The MEA has raised concern over murder of three Indian students in Canada last week
• Indian missions are in touch with local authorities for a thorough investigation into cases, it said
• Advises nationals to remain vigilant in view of deteriorating security environment in Canada

He, however, clarified, “The grant of Indian visas is our sovereign function and we have the legitimate right to deny visas to those who undermine our territorial integrity.”

“The commentary that we see in the Canadian media on this matter is akin to foreign interference in India’s sovereign affairs,” he added.

Jaiswal was responding to questions on reports claiming that New Delhi had been denying visas to pro-Khalistan Canadian citizens unless they explicitly denounce their support to separatism. The report was based on interviews with Canadian Sikhs who were allegedly made to sign such declarations.

The MEA, meanwhile, also raised concern over the murder of three Indian students in Canada last week. “In the last week or so we have had unfortunate tragedies. Three Indian students have been murdered. We are saddened at these terrible tragedies that have struck our nationals in Canada,” Jaiswal said.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the grieving families. Our High Commission and consulates in Toronto and Vancouver are extending all possible help in the matter,” he said.

The 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. “The safety, security and welfare of Indian nationals in Canada is of utmost importance to us. The Indian missions are in touch with the local authorities for a thorough investigation into the incidents,” he said, adding, “We have also issued an advisory for our nationals to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant in view of the deteriorating security environment in Canada as a result of the growing incidence of hate crimes and violence.”

According to official data, over 400,000 Indian students are studying in Canada.