India’s Consular Camps Launch Across Canada with Enhanced Security

India has launched a month-long series of consular camps across Canada. The initiative started on November 1. It will provide services, including life certificates for pensioners, through the end of the month.The camps are being held at 25 different venues. These include temples, gurdwaras, and community centers. According to Hindustan Times, the Hindu Sabha Mandir, which was attacked last year, is notably absent from this year’s list.

Heightened Security Measures Follow Previous Incident

The 2024 consular camp at Hindu Sabha Mandir was invaded by protesters. Pro-Khalistan radicals disrupted the event. This led to multiple arrests, including a key organizer.This year, a large police deployment ensured events proceeded smoothly. Protests occurred at some venues over the weekend. However, authorities successfully prevented any disruption to the services.Officials reported a strong turnout. India’s Consulate in Toronto issued nearly 2,200 life certificates in just the first weekend. The Ross Street Gurdwara in Vancouver alone served 390 pensioners.

Nationwide Reach for Indian Pensioners in Canada

The camps are designed to bring services closer to where people live. They will span seven Canadian provinces. This provides vital access for Indian citizens who are retirees.The schedule includes major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. It also covers smaller communities such as Halifax and Saskatoon. This wide geographic spread ensures broader accessibility for beneficiaries.

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The successful, peaceful start to these India consular camps in Canada highlights a new operational normal. It demonstrates a commitment to serving the diaspora community effectively and securely amid ongoing tensions.

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What services are provided at these camps?

The primary service is issuing life certificates for Indian pensioners. This document is essential for them to continue receiving their pensions from India. Other consular services may also be available.

Why is the Hindu Sabha Mandir not a venue this year?

The temple was the site of a violent protest during a consular camp last November. Its exclusion from the current list appears to be a security precaution. The incident had resulted in several arrests.

How many people are being served?

The initial weekend was very successful. Officials from the Consulate in Toronto reported issuing nearly 2,200 life certificates. One gurdwara in Vancouver served 390 people in a single day.

What measures are in place for security?

Local police provided a large deployment at camp venues over the weekend. Some locations, like the Ross Street Gurdwara, also obtained court orders to keep protesters at a distance. These steps prevented disruptions.

Which Canadian provinces are included?

The camps will be held in seven provinces. These are Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. The schedule covers major cities and smaller towns.