Canada tightens security for India-bound fliers amid tensions with New Delhi

PTC Web Desk:  In the backdrop of escalating tensions between India and Canada, passengers travelling from Canada to India are now facing additional security screening protocols. Canada’s Transport Minister Anita Anand announced these measures late on Monday, citing "an abundance of caution" as the rationale behind the move.

"Transport Canada has implemented temporary additional security screening measures," Anita Anand stated, as reported by CBC. She acknowledged the possibility of delays, advising passengers to plan accordingly while the measures remain in place.

The enhanced screening will be overseen by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), which manages the screening of passengers and baggage at Canadian airports.

Air Canada Issues Advisory

Air Canada, the primary airline connecting the two nations, has alerted passengers about potential delays caused by the new security mandates. The airline has recommended that travellers headed to India arrive at airports at least four hours prior to their scheduled departure to avoid disruptions.

"Due to heightened security mandates by Transport Canada for all passengers travelling to India, security wait times are expected to be longer than usual. We appreciate your patience and understanding," Air Canada informed fliers through a notification, as reported by the Hindustan Times.

This move comes amid strained relations between the two countries following a series of allegations and diplomatic actions. In October, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) accused agents allegedly linked to the Indian government of engaging in organised criminal activities in Canada, including extortion and harassment.

India has strongly denied these allegations, calling them baseless. The diplomatic fallout escalated when both countries expelled each other's top diplomats. India also withdrew its High Commissioner in Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, following Ottawa’s accusations of India's involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen designated as a terrorist by India.

India has repeatedly highlighted the issue of pro-Khalistan elements operating freely in Canada as the central concern affecting bilateral ties. New Delhi accuses Ottawa of allowing these separatist groups to operate with impunity, further straining relations.