New Delhi:
Amid a huge diplomatic row between India and Canada, parents of Indian students are concerned that the standoff could impact their children in Canada and expose them to a security risk.
They fear that their children will face discrimination or prejudice based on their nationality.
“My daughter went to Canada to study seven months ago. My child is also worried there, she cannot concentrate on her studies,” Balwinder Singh – whose daughter is studying in Canada – told news agency ANI.
“My two daughters are in Canada and I am tense. Governments of both countries must find a solution,” said another parent, Kuldeep Kaur.
Some students are also nervous about their plans to study in Canada as hostility between the two countries grows. They are concerned that the government’s decision to suspend Visa services in Canada could have a direct impact on their migration.
Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar has urged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to set up a helpline for Indian students and residents of Canada.
“I would like to request you to set up a special helpline number where our NRIs and students can contact and seek assistance from Indian Consulates. A WhatsApp number can be released for Indian students who are planning to go abroad to study in in case of emergency contact authorities and guidance,” said Mr Jakhar.
Congressman Ravneet Singh Bittu also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure the well-being of students in Canada.
Earlier this week, Canada’s Justin Trudeau made the explosive accusation that “Indian government agents” could be behind the shooting of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India dismissed the accusation as “absurd”.
Canada has not shared specific information about its allegations, India said, flagging “politically condoned hate crimes and criminal violence” in that country.
Both India and Canada issued travel advisories and expelled a senior diplomat from the other country.
India has advised its nationals in Canada and those considering traveling there to exercise “extreme caution” in view of growing anti-India activities and “politically condoned” hate crimes.
“Given the deteriorating security environment in Canada, Indian students in particular are advised to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant,” the foreign ministry said.
Nijjar, 45, was shot dead outside a gurdwara in British Columbia, Canada, in June. He was head of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force and one of India’s most wanted terrorists.