Canada Tightens Security for India-bound Travelers Amid Rising Diplomatic Tensions

Canada Tightens Security Checks for Passengers to India

Canada has implemented stricter security measures for passengers traveling to India, citing this action as “an abundance of caution.” These new policies take effect amid rising diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

Enhanced Security Screening

Transport Minister Anita Anand announced that Transport Canada has put temporary security screening measures in place for travelers to India. Passengers may experience delays at security checkpoints during this time. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will conduct physical screenings, scan carry-on bags with X-ray machines, and use hand swabs to detect substances on individuals if necessary.

Due to these changes, Air Canada has advised travelers to arrive at the airport at least four hours before their flight to India, anticipating longer security lines. An airline notification warned that security wait times will likely exceed expectations for upcoming flights.

Possible Reasons Behind the Changes

The increase in security measures is not linked to any specific incident according to Anand’s office. However, it follows the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) revealing connections between “agents” linked to the Indian government and organized crime in Canada, including harassment and extortion. Additionally, six Indian diplomats were expelled from Canada the same day the RCMP reported credible risks to South Asians involved in the pro-Khalistan movement.

This decision also follows an Air India flight that was diverted to Canada due to a bomb threat in October, even though an investigation found no explosives on board.

Travel Advisory Issued

The Canadian government has also issued a travel advisory for citizens planning to visit India, warning about the Zika virus and the threat of terrorist attacks. The alert urges Canadians to exercise caution throughout India, especially in cities like Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. It also recommends avoiding Jammu and Kashmir, northeastern India, and the Pakistan borders.

Souring India-Canada Relations

India-Canada relations have deteriorated since the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, an Indian-designated Khalistani terrorist, last year. Ottawa has claimed India was involved in this incident, which Delhi has denied, calling the accusation “preposterous.” Tensions escalated further with attacks on Hindu pilgrims at Canadian temples, prompting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to describe these as deliberate assaults.

Amid these issues, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau faces accusations of supporting Khalistani groups to secure political support for his party, as recent polls indicate a decline in his party’s popularity.