Canada ‘fake college offer letter’ fraud: Actual number of students served notices much less, say govt sources

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has acknowledged the need for fair treatment of the students.

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Indian students in Canada are facing deportation (File Photo)

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A day after some Indian students in Canada received a stay order on their deportation notices, the Indian government is learnt to have welcomed the development while saying that the actual number of students there is much less than 700.

“It (stay) is welcome… the consistent efforts by the Indian government have been instrumental in the Canadian government adopting a humane approach and taking on board the perspective of the students,” one of the sources familiar with the matter said, adding that India has been taking up the issue with Canadian authorities, in Canada and in New Delhi.

Sources said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also took up the matter with his Canadian counterpart and Secretary (East), and also raised it during his visit to Canada in April this year.

Also Read | Families feel the pinch, stress high as kids face deportation

Jaishankar had also met most of the students at the Indian Consulate in Toronto. “It was also pointed out (to the Canadian authorities) that there were gaps in the Canadian system and a lack of diligence, owing to which the students were granted visa and also allowed to enter Canada,” one of the sources said.

About the number of affected students, sources said it is much less than 700.

“Most of these students had gone to Canada during 2017-2019. After completing their studies, some of them obtained work permits, while others continue to study in Canada,” said a source.

In the last few days, Canadian parliamentarians across political parties have spoken in support of the students. Immigration Minister Sean Frasier has indicated that Canada is actively pursuing a solution for international students who are facing uncertainty, the sources said.