- Thursday, February 27, 2025
By: Shubham Ghosh
THE Indian embassy in Canada has advised the country’s citizens to exercise caution in the wake of the anti-vaccine mandate protests in various cities of Canada, including capital Ottawa and Toronto.
The Indian mission in Ottawa issued a statement late on Tuesday (8) saying, “Please take all precautions in light of the ongoing protests and public disturbance in Ottawa and other major Canadian cities.”
It added that a special helpline has been set to address issues related to the protest at 6137443751.
“The Canadian capital city of Ottawa and several other major cities including Toronto are currently witnessing protests with road blockages, demonstrations, large gatherings, and general strikes. This has led to disruptions to traffic, public transportation, and shortages of essential items, including food and water.
“Owing to the prevailing situation, a state of emergency has been declared for the City of Ottawa. The impact on traffic and services is likely to continue and local authorities in other major cities of Canada may also impose curfews or other restrictions at short notice,” the advisory read.
The mission appealed to Indians in Canada or planning to travel to that country to remain alert and avoid areas where demonstrations are being held. It asked them to follow instructions that are issued by local authorities, including curfew, and to keep a track on the local media for information on the demonstrations.
Canada has witnessed a number of protests against vaccine mandates and other Covid-19 restrictions with the protesters taking to the streets.
The daily demonstrations were started by truck drivers against a rule that sought cross-country drivers to get jabbed but they soon transformed into a rally against the Justin Trudeau government.
In late January, hundreds of truck drivers drove to the Canadian capital under the banner of ‘Freedom Truck Convoy’ and parked their vehicles in downtown Ottawa, affecting the city’s normal functioning. The protesters said they will not budge till all the vaccine mandates and Covid-related restrictions were withdrawn, the Associated Press reported.
