'Lack of basic security drove our decision': MEA on why Delhi cancelled scheduled consular camps in Canada

Randhir Jaiswal

Briefing the media as part of the weekly press briefings, Ministry of External Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal categorically stated that lack of basic security cover for Indian diplomats in Canada necessitated New Delhi's decision to cancel some of the planned consular camps.

The decision came days after a violent Khalistani mob stormed the premises of a Hindu temple in Canada's Brampton. The Indian Counsulate General in Toronto said that the Canadian authorities refused even "minimum security protection" for such camps.

Sikhs for Justice, a banned pro-Khalistani group, said its supporters were protesting the presence of Indian consular officials who had come to assist in administrative services.

The Indian High Commission was providing Canadian-Indians with essential services which were targeted by anti-India forces. The camps, among other things, help with providing life insurance certificates to Canadian-Indians. One such, consular camp in Vancouver organised at the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey on November 3, 750 life certificates were issued to members of the Indian diaspora and pensioners.

The denial of "minimum security" by Canadian security agencies comes at a time when Khalistani elements have become hyperactive and issued open threats to Indian-origin people and India-linked organisations. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and his Liberal Party have also been slammed for not condemning the attack by the 'Khalistanis', who have been accused of harbouring and appeasing the secessionists.