Two incidents involving Indian students murdered in Canada within a span of just two weeks have triggered concern and unease among the Indian diaspora, particularly in Toronto. Although Canadian authorities have said the cases are not linked, the deaths of a young doctoral student and an Indian woman have intensified discussions around safety for Indian residents and students abroad.
Indian doctoral student shot dead near Toronto campus
The most recent case among Indian students murdered in Canada involved Shivank Avasthi, an Indian doctoral student, who was fatally shot near the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus. Toronto Police confirmed that officers responded to reports of a shooting in the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area.
Police found Avasthi with a gunshot wound, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. According to local reports, suspects fled before police arrived, leading authorities to temporarily lock down the nearby campus as a precaution. The incident marked Toronto’s 41st homicide of the year and became the second case of Indian students murdered in Canada within days.
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed deep anguish over the killing and said it is in touch with the victim’s family to provide all possible assistance. The incident has also raised questions about student safety near educational institutions.
Indian woman found murdered; intimate partner violence suspected
In another case involving Indian students murdered in Canada, a 30-year-old Indian woman, Himanshi Khurana, was found dead inside a Toronto residence last week. Toronto Police said the death is being investigated as a homicide, with authorities suspecting intimate partner violence.
Police have issued a search warrant for 32-year-old Abdul Ghafoori, charging him with first-degree murder. Officials stated that the victim and the suspect knew each other. Officers initially responded to a missing person call late on December 19, and the woman was found deceased the following morning.
Rising concern within the Indian community
While investigators have ruled out any connection between the two cases of Indian nationals murdered in Canada, members of the Indian community have expressed anxiety, particularly international students and young professionals. Community leaders are calling for stronger safety measures, awareness, and support systems.
FAQs
Q: Why are Indian students murdered in Canada raising alarm among the diaspora?
A: The killings occurred within a short period and involved young Indian residents, increasing fear among students and immigrants.
Q: Are the cases of two Indian students murdered in Canada connected?
A: No, Toronto Police have confirmed that the two incidents are separate and unrelated.
Q: Who was the Indian student killed in the latest case?
A: Shivank Avasthi, an Indian doctoral student, was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough campus.
Q: What support is being provided to families of Indian nationals murdered in Canada?
A: The Indian Consulate in Toronto is assisting families and coordinating with Canadian authorities.
