**Canada Implements Enhanced Security Checks for Flights to India Amid Hoax Bomb Scare and Diplomatic Strain**
Babushahi Network
**Toronto, November 20, 2024:** The Canadian government has introduced stricter security protocols for travelers flying to India, citing the need for heightened vigilance. Federal Transport Minister Anita Anand announced the measures, warning passengers to expect delays due to additional screening requirements at airports.
“Transport Canada has implemented temporary additional security screening measures,” said Anand in a statement. “Passengers may experience some screening delays while these measures are in place.” The enhanced checks, overseen by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), include X-ray scans of carry-on luggage, physical inspections, and hand swabs to detect prohibited substances.
This move follows a recent bomb scare involving an Air India flight from New Delhi to Chicago, which was diverted to Iqaluit last month. While no explosives were found, the incident heightened concerns about aviation security.
Although Minister Anand’s announcement did not directly link the enhanced measures to the Air India incident, it comes amid escalating tensions between Canada and India. In October, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme accused Indian agents of involvement in criminal activities targeting Canada’s South Asian community. These allegations led to the expulsion of six Indian diplomats from Canada, with India responding in kind by expelling six Canadian diplomats.
The diplomatic row has strained relations between the two nations, impacting political ties and creating unease among the South Asian diaspora in Canada. Community leaders have voiced concerns about safety and the potential for further fallout.
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Travelers are being urged to arrive at airports earlier than usual to account for possible delays caused by the enhanced screening. While the government has not specified how long these measures will remain in place, the tightened security underscores the ongoing diplomatic challenges and Canada’s focus on ensuring public safety.