The Consulate General of India in Toronto has announced the expansion of its consular services for Indian citizens residing in Canada. These enhanced services include passport issuance, passport renewal, police clearance certificate issuance, and attestation services.
In a post shared on social media, the Consulate General of India in Toronto stated, “Consular services for Indian nationals in Canada, e.g. Passport issuance, Passport renewal, Police Clearance Certificate, Attestation etc. continue to be extended.”
This move to expand consular services comes in the context of recent tensions in bilateral relations between India and Canada. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a cautionary advisory on September 20 to Indian citizens in Canada, particularly students and those planning to visit the country, due to the heightened tensions.
According to the MEA statement, Indian citizens and Indian students residing in Canada are advised to exercise caution and avoid areas and locations in Canada that have seen an increase in anti-India activities. The statement noted that there have been threats targeting Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community who oppose the anti-India agenda.
The MEA has strongly recommended that Indian nationals and students in Canada complete the registration process with either the High Commission of India in Ottawa or the Consulates General of India in Toronto and Vancouver. This registration can be done through their official websites or the MADAD portal at madad.gov.in. Registering is crucial as it allows the High Commission and Consulates General to establish effective communication with Indian citizens in Canada in case of emergencies or adverse situations.
Given the deteriorating security environment in Canada, the MEA has urged Indian students, in particular, to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant.
The recent tensions between India and Canada began when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made allegations against the Indian government, suggesting its involvement in the fatal shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, designated as a terrorist by the Indian government, was fatally shot in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, on June 18.
India has rejected these allegations, calling them “absurd” and “motivated.” In response, a senior Canadian diplomat was expelled from India.
The situation continues to evolve, and both countries are closely monitoring developments in their bilateral relationship.