Daijiworld Media Network - Toronto

Toronto, Dec 26: Following the killing of two Indian nationals in Toronto within a span of a week, a Canadian journalist has raised serious concerns over a growing anti-Indian sentiment in Canada and alleged apathy on the part of local authorities in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Canadian journalist Daniel Bordman said that there was an “alarming rise in anti-Indian sentiment” driven by multiple factors, adding that the response of law enforcement agencies to crimes against Indians appeared lax. The deaths have shocked the Indian community in Canada, which has seen a large influx of migrants over the past decade for education and employment.

Referring to the most recent killing, Bordman said that very little information had been shared with the public. “We only know the name of the victim and that he was shot dead. Beyond that, there is no clarity on who did it, why it happened or how,” he said, criticising the police for what he termed “extreme incompetence”.

He further alleged that such cases were not treated with the seriousness they deserved. “If this were an online comment against a non-white government official, the person might face severe punishment. But when it comes to murder, the police appear casual. Even if the accused is caught, they may be jailed briefly and released,” he claimed.

Last week, 30-year-old Himanshi Khurana, an Indian-origin woman, was found murdered in Toronto. Police said they had responded to a missing person report on December 19 night in the Strachan Avenue and Wellington Street West area. Her body was found inside a residence early the next morning, and the case was treated as a homicide. Police launched a search for her live-in partner, Abdul Ghafoori (32), in connection with the murder.

Days later, another Indian national, 20-year-old student Shivank Avasthi, was shot dead on December 23 in the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area of Toronto. Police said the suspects fled the scene before officers arrived.

Reacting to Avasthi’s death, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India was in touch with the victim’s family and local authorities. “It is very unfortunate. We convey our deepest condolences and are seeking details regarding the circumstances that led to his death,” he said.

The twin incidents have intensified concerns among Indians living in Canada, with community members demanding stronger action and greater transparency from Canadian authorities.