Indian Students in Canada Grapple with Document Resubmission Requests and Safety Concerns Amid Diplomatic Tensions
Indian students in Canada are facing unprecedented anxiety following requests from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to resubmit essential documents such as study permits, visas, and academic records. The move, communicated via email, has sparked widespread panic among international students, especially those holding valid visas for up to two years. This development comes on the heels of the cancellation of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program and tighter financial aid requirements imposed by Canadian authorities.
Mounting Uncertainty Over Resubmission Requests
With over 427,000 Indian students currently enrolled in Canadian institutions, they form the largest group of international students in the country. However, the sudden demand to verify documents has left many feeling uncertain about their academic future. Media reports indicate that students from Punjab were asked to visit IRCC offices in person to validate their credentials.
The lack of clarity regarding the resubmission’s purpose has exacerbated fears among the affected students, who worry about potential disruptions to their studies. Many have called on the IRCC to communicate the reason behind this directive to alleviate their concerns.
Rising Safety Concerns Following Student Deaths
Adding to their distress, three Indian students were tragically killed in unrelated incidents across Canada over the past two weeks. These incidents prompted the Indian government to issue an advisory urging nationals, particularly students, to exercise extreme caution.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, expressed deep sorrow over the deaths, calling them “terrible tragedies.” He also emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Indian nationals in Canada. “Our High Commission and Consulates in Toronto and Vancouver are providing all possible assistance to the grieving families,” he stated.
Diplomatic Strains Complicate the Situation
The recent developments occur amid heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, following the controversial murder of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India’s insistence on a thorough investigation into the student deaths reflects the deteriorating relations between the two nations.
While Canada remains a favored destination for Indian students due to its high-quality education system, the growing incidence of hate crimes and criminal violence has raised significant concerns. India’s missions in Canada have reiterated their commitment to raising issues faced by Indian students with relevant Canadian authorities.
The Indian government also highlighted the need for vigilance, advising nationals to remain alert in light of the “deteriorating security environment” in Canada. Despite these challenges, Canada continues to attract Indian students, with approximately 4.2 lakh currently pursuing studies there, according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
