Canada Abruptly Ends Student Direct Stream Amid Rising Tensions

The Canadian government has ceased the Student Direct Stream program, affecting international students planning to study in Canada, including those from India, China, and others. This decision comes amidst heightened diplomatic tensions between Canada and India, with both nations exchanging critical remarks over diplomatic issues.

The Canadian government has ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program for international students, a decision poised to affect thousands who planned to study in the country. The program, aimed at speeding up study permit procedures for students from countries including India, China, and Pakistan, was terminated unexpectedly at 2 PM on November 8, local time.

Additionally, the Nigeria Student Express (NSE) program was also discontinued. Applications submitted before the deadline will be processed as per the SDS and NSE guidelines. Launched in 2018, the SDS was designed to expedite the application process for eligible students from various countries, as noted by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The government reassures commitment to equitable access for all international students, stating that future candidates must follow the regular study permit protocols, including obtaining a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter for studying at designated institutions.

This development coincides with a rise in diplomatic tensions between Canada and India, following accusations from Canada regarding India's involvement in a politically sensitive incident. The issue escalated when Ottawa singled out six Indian diplomats as 'persons of interest', leading to their recall by India. India's External Affairs Minister critiqued Canada's stance on extremism, prompting a response from Canada's Immigration Minister dismissing such claims.

(With inputs from agencies.)