The Indian Embassy in Ottawa has announced the resumption of visa services for Canadians, marking a crucial step toward defusing diplomatic tensions. The decision, which is expected to have far-reaching implications, comes in the wake of a high-profile dispute over the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.
The Indian High Commission issued a statement on Wednesday, stating, “After a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some of the recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services.”
Visa Services Updates from India to Canada
Starting Thursday, a wide array of visa services, including entry, business, medical, and conference visas, will be reinstated, providing a glimmer of hope for those eagerly awaiting a chance to visit India. The statement also reassured that emergency services would continue to be handled by the Indian High Commission and the consulates in Toronto and Vancouver.
However, it’s worth noting that tourist, student, employment, and film visas are yet to be resumed, with the Indian authorities closely monitoring the situation to determine the right course of action.
This development follows Canada‘s recent decision to recall 41 of its 62 diplomats stationed in India, citing concerns over diplomatic immunity violations. In response, the Indian government has argued that the move aligns the number of diplomats in each country and does not breach international law or the Geneva Convention.
The origin of this diplomatic rift traces back to the accusations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who publicly alleged the involvement of Indian intelligence in the killing of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India promptly dismissed these allegations as “absurd.”
Nijjar, a vocal advocate for the creation of a separate Sikh state independent from India, was a fugitive wanted by Indian authorities on charges of terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder.
Canada has been persistent in its demand for India to cooperate in the investigation into Nijjar’s death, leading to the expulsion of an Indian diplomat by Canadian authorities. This move, in turn, invoked outrage in New Delhi, prompting India to take countermeasures, including the suspension of visa services for Canadians.
Furthermore, the Indian government advised its nationals against traveling to specific parts of Canada, citing an increase in anti-Indian activities.
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