Ottawa: The Canadian government has lifted the enhanced security measures for passengers flying to India, just days after their implementation. The measures, which were introduced earlier this week, were initially put in place “out of an abundance of caution” due to heightened security concerns.
Transport Minister Anita Anand’s office confirmed the removal of these additional screening protocols on Thursday. The enhanced measures had led to longer wait times and delays at airports, causing significant inconvenience to travelers. Air Canada had advised passengers to arrive at the airport four hours before their flight to accommodate the extended security checks.
The decision to roll back the extra screening comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between Canada and India. Relations between the two countries have been strained following allegations by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that the Indian government was involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. India has vehemently denied these claims.
The additional security measures were also linked to recent threats from the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which had issued warnings against flying Air India. Despite these threats, no incidents were reported, and the Canadian government decided to revert to standard security procedures.
