Indian and Canadian Authorities Address Indian Students’ Issue in Recent Discussions
In a promising development, Canadian authorities have taken steps to prevent the deportation of certain Indian students who allegedly submitted fraudulent admission letters to educational institutions. People familiar with the matter expressed their appreciation for this decision on Sunday.
Recognizing that the students themselves were not at fault, Canadian authorities had been urged repeatedly to adopt a fair and humanitarian approach. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in particular, emphasized the unfairness of punishing the students and advocated for a more just resolution.
While reports have suggested that approximately 700 Indian students in Canada faced the threat of deportation due to alleged submission of fraudulent admission letters, sources indicate that the actual number is considerably lower. Most of these students had arrived in Canada between 2017 and 2019. Following their studies, some obtained work permits, while others pursued further education.
Regarding this matter, Indian authorities in New Delhi and Ottawa actively engaged with their Canadian counterparts in recent days. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar personally raised the issue with his Canadian counterpart, and the Secretary (East) from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs discussed it during a visit to Canada in April.
This development signifies a positive outcome, reflecting the constructive dialogue between Indian and Canadian authorities to address the concerns of the affected students.
According to sources, some students have recently received stay orders on their deportation notices, although specific details were not provided. This development has been welcomed, with the government of India’s persistent efforts being credited for influencing the Canadian government to adopt a compassionate approach that considers the students’ perspective.
Throughout the process, Canadian authorities were consistently urged to exercise fairness and humanitarianism, recognizing that the students themselves were not responsible for the situation.
Furthermore, it was pointed out that deficiencies within the Canadian system and a lack of due diligence contributed to the issuance of visas and the entry of these students into Canada, as highlighted by the aforementioned individual.
Notably, Canadian parliamentarians from various political parties expressed their support for the affected students. Immigration Minister Sean Frasier indicated that Canada is actively seeking a resolution for international students facing uncertainty. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also acknowledged the importance of treating the students fairly.
During a recent media briefing, Jaishankar addressed the matter involving students who, according to the Canadians, did not study at the college they were supposed to and subsequently faced difficulties when applying for work permits.
Jaishankar emphasized that these students had pursued their education in good faith, and if there were individuals who misled them, those responsible should be held accountable. He expressed that punishing a student who had undertaken their education with good intentions would be unfair.
He further stated that if a student had not committed any wrongdoing, it is reasonable to expect that a solution be found. Jaishankar affirmed that the Indian government will continue to advocate for a fair resolution, hoping that the Canadian system will demonstrate fairness in addressing this matter.
