India has canceled its scheduled consular camps in Canada, citing concerns over the inability to provide adequate security for its officials and staff. The decision, which comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, was officially communicated by the Indian High Commission in Ottawa. The consular camps were intended to assist Indian citizens living in various parts of Canada with visa services, documentation, and other consular support.

The Indian government expressed its concerns about the safety of its personnel due to increasing incidents of harassment and threats from certain groups. In recent months, there has been growing diplomatic friction between India and Canada, particularly following Canada’s criticism of India’s internal policies and the ongoing issue of Sikh separatism, which has become a sensitive topic in both countries. The Indian authorities have repeatedly raised concerns about the activities of pro-Khalistan elements in Canada, which they say have been undermining India’s sovereignty and contributing to an unsafe environment for Indian diplomats and citizens.

India’s decision to suspend the consular camps underscores the escalating tensions, with the Indian government making it clear that security concerns were paramount. The camps were expected to provide crucial services to Indian expatriates and students, a large number of whom reside in Canada. Many were left disappointed by the cancellation, as the camps had become an essential channel for resolving visa-related and other consular issues.

The Indian High Commission has assured that it will continue to explore alternative ways to provide consular services to Canadians of Indian origin, but the cancellation of the camps highlights the deepening diplomatic rift. This move could further strain relations between the two nations, which have already been marked by disagreements over a range of political and security issues.