India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik, has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of Indians residing in Canada. In a candid interview with CTV News, Patnaik revealed that he requires personal protection while serving in Canada, a precaution not deemed necessary for his Canadian counterpart in India. This revelation comes amid rising tensions and incidents targeting the Indian community in Canada.
Patnaik’s comments follow the third attack on a café owned by Indian comedian Kapil Sharma in Vancouver, where shots were fired. The High Commissioner emphasized that these incidents should not be dismissed as merely an “Indian problem,” urging Canadian authorities to recognize the broader implications for domestic safety.
Growing Concerns Over Safety
The envoy expressed his bewilderment at the necessity of his protection in Canada, questioning the safety of South Asians and Indians in the country. “Is Canada safe for Indians here? Is Canada safe for itself?” Patnaik asked, highlighting the need for a reassessment of security measures. He pointed out that the High Commissioner of Canada in India does not require similar protection, underscoring the disparity in safety perceptions between the two nations.
“South Asians and Indians are feeling unsafe here. Do we need to make sure that they feel safe? What is happening here?” — Dinesh Patnaik
Diplomatic Relations and Recent Appointments
The appointment of Dinesh Patnaik as India’s High Commissioner to Canada in August marked a potential thaw in previously strained diplomatic relations. This shift was mirrored by Canada’s appointment of Christopher Cooter as its new High Commissioner to India. Despite these diplomatic gestures, the safety concerns raised by Patnaik highlight ongoing challenges in the bilateral relationship.
In response to questions about the Sikh community’s safety in Canada, Patnaik reassured that they have never been targeted by Indian authorities. “Extra-territorial action by India is never done,” he stated, aiming to dispel fears of targeted actions against the community.
Rising Incidents and Deportations
Incidents involving attacks on Indians in Canada have been on the rise, contributing to a growing sense of insecurity among the community. Additionally, data from the Canadian Border Services Agency indicates an increase in the number of Indians being deported from Canada. As of July 28, 1,891 Indians had been removed, compared to 1,997 last year and 625 in 2019.
By the Numbers:
– Indians removed from Canada in 2023 (till July 28): 1,891
– Indians removed in 2022: 1,997
– Indians removed in 2019: 625
Implications and Future Steps
The growing concerns over safety and rising deportation figures have significant implications for the Indian diaspora in Canada. The situation calls for a concerted effort from both Indian and Canadian authorities to address the underlying issues and ensure the safety of all residents. As diplomatic channels remain open, the focus will likely shift towards collaborative measures to enhance security and foster mutual understanding.
Moving forward, it remains crucial for both nations to engage in dialogue and take actionable steps to mitigate tensions and promote a safe environment for all communities. The spotlight on these issues underscores the importance of addressing safety concerns not just as isolated incidents but as part of a broader strategy for peace and stability.
