Verma's advice comes amidst escalating tensions between India and Canada, with New Delhi withdrawing its High Commissioner and other diplomats in response to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's alleged "hostility" towards India. Ottawa had accused Verma and other Indian officials of being "persons of interest" in the investigation of the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
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Khalistani Targeting of Indian Students
In an interview upon his return to India, Verma revealed that Khalistani terrorists are targeting the broader Indian community in Canada, including students, offering financial incentives and other benefits to recruit them. Given the economic challenges faced by many students in Canada, Verma noted that they are particularly vulnerable to such overtures.
Students Encouraged to Participate in Anti-India Activities
He also highlighted instances where some students have been persuaded to participate in protests outside Indian diplomatic buildings, engaging in activities that disrespect the Indian flag and promote anti-India slogans on social media. These students are subsequently encouraged to seek asylum in Canada, claiming that they face persecution in India. Verma confirmed that there have been cases where students have successfully obtained asylum under these false pretenses.
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Concerns About Negative Influences on Students
As one of India's most experienced diplomats, Verma expressed deep concern about the "negative influences" that are misleading Indian students in Canada. He urged parents to maintain regular communication with their children to ensure their safety and well-being, and to guide them away from making "unwise" decisions.
Lack of Evidence from Canadian Authorities
In his first interview since his return to India, Verma reiterated that Canadian authorities had not shared any concrete evidence with him regarding the alleged ongoing investigation. He stated that, conversely, India had provided the Trudeau administration with substantial evidence on radical groups operating in Canada, along with repeated extradition requests for 26 radicals and gangsters, which have been ignored.
Criticism of Canada's Double Standards
Verma criticized Canada's "double standards," noting that the country applies different laws to Indians and Canadians. He emphasized that the Global South no longer accepts dictates from developed nations and demands respect for its sovereignty.
Hardships Faced by Indian Students in Canada
The diplomat also shed light on the hardships faced by Indian students in Canada, revealing that many live in overcrowded accommodations and often attend lesser-known colleges with limited academic engagement. To make ends meet, many students are forced to take low-paying, part-time jobs in unrelated fields, such as manual labor or driving cabs. This stark contrast between their aspirations and the reality of their circumstances raises serious concerns about the overall well-being of international students in Canada.
Verma's statements have drawn attention to the mounting challenges faced by Indian students in Canada, including issues of living conditions, job opportunities, and the quality of education they receive. These revelations raise important questions about the overall well-being of international students in Canada and the need for more comprehensive support and protection.
