Three Indian students killed in Canada: Families, officials demand justice

The tragic deaths of three Indian students in Canada within a single week have sent shockwaves through both nations, igniting concerns over the safety of international students. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the incidents on Friday, revealing that the government is in constant touch with the victims’ families and Canadian authorities to ensure thorough investigations.

The spate of violence began on December 1, when Gurasis Singh, a 22-year-old student from Lambton College, was fatally stabbed in his shared residence in Sarnia, Ontario. Authorities stated that an argument between Gurasis Singh and his 36-year-old housemate escalated, culminating in the stabbing. Local police have charged the suspect with second-degree murder.

Just days later, on December 6, another horrifying incident unfolded in Edmonton, Alberta. Harshandeep Singh, a 20-year-old student who had been living in Canada for about 18 months, was fatally shot while on duty as a security guard. The Edmonton Police Service quickly apprehended two suspects, charging them with first-degree murder. Investigators have recovered a firearm and believe no other individuals were involved in the crime.

These violent deaths underscore a growing concern for the safety of Indian students in Canada, one of the top destinations for higher education among Indian nationals. With more than 427,000 Indian students pursuing their studies in Canada as of 2024, their welfare has become a pressing issue for the Indian government. The MEA has expressed its alarm, stating it remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Indian nationals abroad.

The ministry noted that Indian missions across Canada have been instructed to maintain close contact with students and local authorities. The Consulate General of India in Vancouver has extended its condolences to the bereaved families, pledging full support during this time of grief.

Indian Student Deaths In Canada: A Troubling Pattern

The recent tragedies add to a concerning trend. Between 2018 and 2023, Canada reported the highest number of deaths among Indian students studying abroad, with 91 fatalities attributed to various causes, including accidents, natural reasons, and violent incidents. While Canada remains a preferred destination for higher education, incidents like these have prompted Indian authorities to issue repeated advisories for students to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines.

Experts on student safety stress the importance of raising awareness about personal security and navigating cultural differences when living abroad. A spokesperson from a Toronto-based international student organization highlighted the need for local authorities to enhance measures ensuring student safety, especially in residential settings and workplaces.

In the aftermath of these tragedies, families of the victims in India have called for swift justice. Harshandeep Singh’s father reportedly expressed disbelief and grief over his son’s untimely death, urging the Indian government to press Canadian authorities for a fair and transparent investigation.

Efforts To Address Safety Concerns

In response to these incidents, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has urged students in Canada to prioritize their safety and remain alert to local advisories. The ministry reassured the Indian community that it is actively working with Canadian officials to ensure justice for the victims and their families.

Canadian authorities, for their part, have reiterated their commitment to providing a safe environment for all international students. Local police departments in Edmonton and Sarnia have underscored the importance of community cooperation in resolving these cases and preventing similar tragedies.

These harrowing events serve as a stark reminder of the challenges international students can face, from cultural adaptation to unforeseen risks. While Canada remains a top choice for higher education, experts suggest bolstering safety mechanisms to prevent further tragedies.