Canada has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid traveling to India during the Lok Sabha elections, scheduled between April 19 and June 1, 2024. The advisory cites concerns about potential terrorist attacks and advises Canadians to exercise caution while in India.
According to the advisory, there have been calls for protests and negative sentiment towards Canada in both traditional and social media channels in India. This heightened tension could lead to demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests, where Canadians may face intimidation or harassment. In light of these developments, the advisory recommends that Canadians maintain a low profile, refrain from sharing personal information with strangers, and avoid crowded areas, including public transportation. Traveling with a companion and informing family or friends about travel plans is also advised.
Specific cities such as Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai are singled out for non-essential travel due to the unavailability of consular services in those areas. Canadians requiring consular assistance are directed to contact the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. Additionally, travelers are cautioned against non-essential travel to Assam and Manipur due to the risk of terrorism and insurgency, as well as the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir due to security concerns related to terrorism, militancy, civil unrest, and kidnapping. However, travel to or within the Union Territory of Ladakh is exempt from these advisories.
The advisory also advises Canadians to stay vigilant regarding potential demonstrations surrounding the Lok Sabha elections. Travelers are urged to avoid areas where protests or large gatherings are taking place, follow instructions from local authorities, and monitor local media for updates on ongoing demonstrations.
This travel advisory comes amid strained diplomatic relations between Canada and India. In response to allegations of India's involvement in the killing of a Sikh separatist named Nijjar, Canada reduced the number of diplomatic personnel in New Delhi and other parts of India to effectively manage operations. This move followed India's temporary suspension of visa services for Canadian citizens in September 2023, which sparked speculation about potential retaliatory measures from Canada.
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