Over the past five years, Canada has reported the deaths of 1,203 Indian citizens, according to official data shared by the Ministry of External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh in Parliament. Most of these deaths occurred due to natural causes such as old age or illness, while some were linked to accidents, violence, suicides, and murders. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh provided the figures in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, stating that the government remains committed to supporting Indian nationals abroad in distress situations.
The year-wise data reveals that 120 deaths were reported in 2020, 160 in 2021, 198 in 2022, 336 in 2023, and 389 in 2024. The gradual increase highlights the growing Indian population in Canada and the inevitable challenges that come with it. Alongside these fatalities, the MEA successfully facilitated the repatriation of mortal remains or ashes of 757 Indians from Canada to India during the same period, ensuring bereaved families could perform last rites in their homeland.
Singh stressed that the Government of India gives top priority to the timely transportation of mortal remains. The MEA has well-established standard operating procedures (SOPs) that enable coordination between Indian missions or posts abroad and the concerned authorities. This mechanism covers assistance in cases of death, arrangements for local cremation or burial, transportation of remains to India, and facilitation of insurance or compensation claims for the families.
The rising number of Indian deaths in Canada reflects the country’s sizable diaspora, with students, professionals, and permanent residents forming a significant portion of the community. While the majority pass away due to natural reasons, the occurrence of accidents and other unnatural causes serves as a reminder of the importance of safety awareness and community support for Indians living overseas.