Canada asks citizens to 'exercise high degree of caution' ahead of Lok Sabha polls in India

In light of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in India, Canada has asked its citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” as demonstarions could occur before, during and after the elections in the country.

The information was updated on the safety and security section of the travel advisory on Wednesday.

“General elections are scheduled to take place between April 19 and June 1, 2024. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections,” read the newly added part.

The advisory also warned that disruptions to traffic and public transportation “may also occur” during the process, while “curfews may be imposed without notice”.

It advised travellers to avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.

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The advisory has retained many of last year’s warnings following the strained relations between Canada and India after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement in the House of Commons regarding “credible allegations” linking Indian agents to the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar on 18 June, 2023, in Surrey, British Columbia.

“In the context of recent developments in Canada and in India, there are calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada in traditional media and on social media. Demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests, could occur and Canadians may be subjected to intimidation or harassment,” read the advisory issued in October last year.

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This section remains as it is, along with advice for those in Delhi and the National Capital Region to maintain a low profile with strangers, refrain from sharing personal information, avoid crowded areas and public transportation, and travel accompanied while informing a friend or family member of their plans.

The advisory also called upon travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh and Mumbai, as “consular services in-person are temporarily unavailable in those cities or surrounding areas”.

With inputs from agencies