The Indian Consulate in Toronto has made the difficult decision to cancel several scheduled consular camps due to concerns over security. This announcement, made via the social media platform X, follows a recent incident of violence and disruption at a consular camp co-organized by the Indian consulate outside the Hindi Sabha Temple in Brampton, near Toronto.
The Consulate cited the inability of Canadian security authorities to provide adequate protection to camp organizers as the primary reason for the cancellations. This decision comes just days after anti-India extremist groups orchestrated the violence at the Brampton camp, highlighting a growing trend of disruption at these events.
India has expressed its strong displeasure at the situation, registering its protest at the highest levels. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself expressed anguish over the incident, and the Indian High Commission issued a formal press statement condemning the violence.
The High Commission highlighted the importance of these consular camps for local Indian communities, stating that they were organized to provide essential services like life certificate issuance. They noted that despite requesting strong security measures well in advance, the Canadian authorities failed to ensure a safe environment for these events.
The High Commission expressed deep disappointment that such disruptions were allowed to occur, particularly for routine consular work organized with full cooperation from local co-organizers. They also raised concerns about the safety of attendees, including Indian nationals, who rely on these camps for crucial services.
The situation has not been limited to Brampton. Similar attempts to disrupt consular camps were reported in Vancouver and Surrey on November 2 and 3. In response to the escalating security concerns, the Indian High Commission declared that the organization of future consular camps will be contingent on robust security arrangements provided by local authorities.
Beyond the immediate concerns of security, the diplomatic relationship between India and Canada has become strained. India has accused Canada of violating international norms, including the Vienna Convention, by subjecting Indian diplomats to surveillance. The Ministry of External Affairs has lodged a formal protest with the Canadian government over these actions.
The cancellation of the consular camps in Toronto serves as a stark reminder of the growing tensions between India and Canada. The situation underscores the need for both countries to address the security concerns and diplomatic disagreements urgently, ensuring the safety of their citizens and diplomats, and preserving the peaceful and productive relationship between the two nations.
