OTTAWA: The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to refrain from travelling to the Indian states of Assam and Manipur citing concerns related to terrorism and insurgency. This advisory comes in response to perceived risks associated with terrorism and insurgency in the region.
The official advisory on the Canadian government's website explicitly states, "Avoid non-essential travel to the following states due to the risk of terrorism and insurgency: Assam, Manipur." The advisory underscores the presence of several extremist and insurgent groups operating in these Northeastern states. It highlights their consistent targeting of local government institutions and security forces, emphasizing the potential use of various criminal activities to fund their operations.
“Several extremist and insurgent groups are active in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur,” said the Canadian government on its website.
It added: “They regularly target local government and security forces and may use various criminal activities to finance their activities.”
In addition to concerns about terrorism and insurgency, the Canadian government draws attention to ethnic tensions in Manipur, which can escalate into conflict and civil unrest, further adding to the risk factor.
To ensure the safety of Canadian citizens travelling to India, the government advises exercising a high degree of caution throughout the country. It mentions a general threat of terrorist attacks, particularly in specific regions. These regions include the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the state of Manipur, the state of Assam, and areas in East India where Naxalite groups are active.
The advisory further dedicates a separate section to the Northeastern state of Manipur, where violent demonstrations have been ongoing since May 3, 2023, resulting in casualties and disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Curfews have been enforced in several districts, and there may be limitations on mobile and internet services.
For Canadian travellers in Manipur, the government recommends monitoring local media for the latest information, following instructions from local authorities, being prepared to adjust travel plans in case of disturbances, and anticipating heightened security measures and an increased police presence in the region.
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