Canada updated travel advisory for its citizens in India, asking them to “remain vigilant and exercise caution” in the context of recent developments in Canada and in India. The advisory, published on a website of the Government of Canada, reads that “there are calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada on social media”.
What Canada’s latest advisory says
The country advised citizens against travelling to India. “If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so,” it said.
Under regional risk, Canada said, “Avoid non-essential travel to the following states due to the risk of terrorism and insurgency: Assam, Manipur”.
“Avoid all travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir due to the unpredictable security situation. There is a threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest and kidnapping,” it added. The advisory excluded travelling to or within the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The advisory further asked citizens to avoid all travel to areas within 10 km of the border with Pakistan in Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan “due to the unpredictable security situation and presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance.” “This advisory excludes the Wagah border crossing,” it added.
On visas, Canada said, “As of September 21, 2023, Indian visa services in Canada have been suspended until further notice.” It said one can only stay in India for up to 180 consecutive days on a tourist visa, even when its validity exceeds 180 days. “Ensure you apply for the proper type of visa for the specific purpose of your trip,” the advisory said.
First Published: Sept 26, 2023 10:09 AM IST