Punjab BJP Chief Jakhar Urges MEA to Set up Helpline For Students & NRIs Amid India-Canada Tensions – News18

Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar has urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to set up a helpline for Indian students and NRIs in Canada in the wake of the diplomatic tension between New Delhi and Ottawa.

Jakhar, in his letter to External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, highlighted the concerns of Indian citizens residing in Canada and urged the Union Minister to release a detailed statement listing out various steps and measures being taken by the Government of India for their safety and security with a timeline until the eventual resolution of this issue.

“This, I am sure, would go a long way in assuaging the sense of deep anxiety, panic and indecision prevailing amongst our people living in Canada and especially in students waiting to go abroad for studies. An assurance from your office would certainly lay to rest the doubts and insecurities of our students who are rightfully concerned about their study plans,” Jakhar’s letter read.

The BJP leader has suggested releasing a WhatsApp number for Indian students planning to go abroad to get in touch with authorities in case of need and for guidance.

Reiterating his observation that Trudeau has made these “malicious charges” only to cater to his domestic political compulsions, Jakhar hoped that the Canadian prime minister would realise his folly at the earliest and the matter would be resolved soon in an amicable manner.

Underlining that no one can dictate to India how to defend its sovereignty, Jakhar stated that the Government of India had taken the right stand by strongly countering PM Trudeau’s outburst and by asking for evidence, which he said did not seem forthcoming.

Lakhs of students from Punjab are studying in various colleges in Canada and their parents have started approaching immigration agencies and government officials on the unfolding situation.