Montreal: A Canadian immigration case involving an Indian refugee family has sparked concern among immigration lawyers and human rights advocates after deportation proceedings were initiated against a man and his five-year-old son while the child’s mother remains protected under Canada’s refugee system.
Ravi Chauhan and his young son are facing removal from Canada, while Chauhan’s wife, who has been granted refugee protection by Canadian authorities, is expected to remain in the country. Advocates say the case highlights concerns about the separation of refugee families under existing immigration rules.
According to the family, Chauhan recently received a notice from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) requesting his appearance at a Montreal office. What was initially believed to be a routine administrative process reportedly resulted in deportation proceedings being launched against him.
Family members said Chauhan was questioned separately by officials, an experience they claim caused distress to his young son. His wife said the prospect of family separation is devastating, particularly because their child depends heavily on both parents.
Immigration lawyer Stuart Istvanffy described the case as highly unusual, saying he had not previously encountered a situation in which close family members of a recognized refugee were facing deportation. He questioned the public interest served by such action.
The case has also drawn attention from refugee support organizations. Representatives of advocacy groups said they have recently become aware of similar cases and expressed concern over what they describe as a growing trend.
The family arrived in Canada from Haryana in 2023. Chauhan’s wife later sought refugee protection, citing threats and attacks she allegedly faced in India. Canadian authorities granted her refugee status in September 2024.
Under Canadian immigration rules, protected refugees generally cannot return to their country of origin while their permanent residency applications are being processed. Legal experts say that if Chauhan and his son are deported, returning to Canada could become extremely difficult.
Chauhan was reportedly detained for 48 hours before being released on bail. The family says the situation has also affected the well-being of their young son, who is enrolled in school and learning both English and French in Montreal.
The family’s financial stability is also at stake. Chauhan is currently employed in Montreal and is the primary income earner, while his wife remains focused on childcare and recovery from past trauma, according to relatives.
Responding to concerns, Canadian immigration officials said deportation decisions are made only after all legal procedures have been followed. Authorities stated that removal orders are carried out only after available appeal options have been exhausted.
