Canada to implement extra security for flights to India as diplomatic tensions escalate

Amid escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, the Canadian government has introduced tighter security protocols for passengers flying to India. The new measures, which were announced by Federal Transport Minister Anita Anand, aim to address heightened concerns and ensure passenger safety. In a statement issued on Monday evening, Anand explained that these additional screening protocols were being implemented as a precautionary step.

As part of these measures, Air Canada has advised passengers traveling to India to arrive at airports at least four hours before their scheduled departure. This is to accommodate the longer security screening process now in place. The airline notified passengers over the weekend of potential delays and longer waiting times at security checkpoints.

The decision comes following a series of heightened tensions between India and Canada, which began in September when Canadian authorities accused India of being involved in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistan activist and Canadian citizen. India has vehemently denied the allegations and argued that Canada has allowed pro-Khalistan groups to operate freely on its soil, further complicating diplomatic relations. In retaliation, both countries expelled each other’s diplomats, worsening the situation.

The new security measures are not directly linked to any specific incident but are being viewed as a precautionary response to the ongoing strain in diplomatic ties. Air India was recently involved in an unrelated bomb threat incident in October, when a flight to Chicago was diverted to Iqaluit in Canada due to a threat. However, no explosive devices were found during the inspection, and the authorities did not draw a direct connection between that event and the newly implemented security steps.

The rising tension between India and Canada has continued to dominate the news, with both governments trading accusations. Canada’s concern centers around the treatment of its citizens and the alleged involvement of Indian officials in crimes on Canadian soil. Meanwhile, India maintains that the key issue lies in Canada’s support of separatist groups and the permissive environment they enjoy within the country.

With both countries grappling with diplomatic fallout, these enhanced security measures reflect the ongoing uncertainty that is affecting air travel and international relations. Passengers flying from Canada to India should expect more thorough security checks and longer wait times, as authorities continue to address the diplomatic standoff.