Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has called off its scheduled consular camps in Toronto due to security inadequacies, following a recent attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton, Canada. This decision reflects growing concerns over the safety of Indian nationals and diplomatic activities in Canada.
Consular camps are critical services provided by Indian diplomatic missions, including the High Commission in Ottawa and Consulates in Vancouver and Toronto, facilitating essential consular services such as issuing life certificates, especially significant for pensioners.
Speaking on the development, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “The consulate in Toronto was compelled to cancel its upcoming consular camp due to inadequate security assurances from the host government.” He highlighted the vital role these camps play for the large Indian diaspora, particularly during the November-December period when documentation for pensions and other formalities is often required.
The Consulate General of India in Toronto previously noted that the decision was made after local security agencies conveyed their inability to ensure minimum security measures for the event organizers.
This move comes in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong condemnation of the “deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada” last week, during which individuals breached the gates of the Brampton temple. The incident occurred while a consular camp hosted by the Indian High Commission was in progress. PM Modi also denounced what he described as “cowardly attempts” to intimidate Indian diplomats.
The Indian High Commission in Ottawa reported disruptions to their consular camp shortly after the temple incident, highlighting the challenges Indian diplomatic missions face concerning security in Canada.
