Introduction
On September 21, 2023, India suspended its visa services in Canada until further notice. The decision comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries, following a series of incidents, including the killing of a Canadian Sikh leader in India and the expulsion of two Indian diplomats from Canada.
Reasons for the suspension
The Indian government has not given a clear reason for the suspension of visa services, but it is widely believed to be a retaliatory measure against Canada. In a statement, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that the decision was taken due to “operational reasons.” However, it is likely that the suspension is also related to the recent tensions between the two countries.
In recent months, there has been a growing rift between India and Canada over the issue of Sikh separatism. India has accused Canada of providing safe haven to Sikh separatists, while Canada has denied these allegations. The tensions between the two countries came to a head in September 2023, when a Canadian Sikh leader, Ripudaman Malik, was killed in India. Malik was a vocal critic of the Indian government and had been accused of supporting Sikh separatism.
Following Malik’s killing, Canada expelled two Indian diplomats from the country. India retaliated by expelling two Canadian diplomats. The suspension of visa services is the latest escalation in the diplomatic row between the two countries.
Impact of the suspension
The suspension of visa services will have a significant impact on people who need to travel between India and Canada. This includes students, business travelers, and family members. It will also make it more difficult for Canadians to visit India for tourism.
Reaction to the suspension
The Canadian government has expressed its disappointment with India’s decision to suspend visa services. In a statement, the Canadian Foreign Ministry said that the decision was “unfortunate” and that it would “complicate the relationship between the two countries.”
The Canadian Sikh community has also criticized India’s decision. In a statement, the World Sikh Organization said that the decision was “discriminatory” and that it would “harm the Sikh community in Canada.”
Conclusion
The suspension of visa services by India is a serious setback in relations between the two countries. It is important for both sides to work to resolve their differences and to restore normal relations.