In a surprising move, India has temporarily halted the issuance of visas to Canadian citizens, citing “operational reasons.” This development has raised eyebrows and comes at a time when India and Canada find themselves embroiled in a diplomatic row over allegations of Indian involvement in a prominent Sikh terrorist’s murder.
Visa Suspension
India has abruptly suspended the issuance of visas to Canadian citizens. This decision was communicated through BLS International, a private agency responsible for the initial processing of visa applications from Canadians. According to the notice, this suspension is due to “operational reasons” and is effective until further notice.
The suspension of visa services coincides with a growing international controversy. Canada has alleged that Indian agents are linked to the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistan Sikh terrorist. India vehemently denies these claims, describing them as “absurd” and “motivated.” The connection between the visa suspension and this dispute remains uncertain.
Strained India-Canada Relations
Even before the visa suspension, India-Canada relations were tense. At the G20 Summit in Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concerns about anti-India activities taking place in Canada. Months after Nijjar’s murder, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused “agents of the Indian government” of assassinating Nijjar, further straining relations. India rejected these allegations and criticized Canada for sheltering Khalistani terrorists.
Diplomatic Expulsions and Travel Advisories
As the diplomatic row escalated, both countries expelled senior officials. Canada ordered a Research and Analysis Wing official to leave, and India ejected a diplomat for interference and involvement in anti-India activities. Additionally, travel advisories were exchanged, with Canada warning its citizens about tensions in Jammu and Kashmir and the northeast, and India urging caution for its citizens in Canada due to anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes.
Who Was Hardeep Singh Nijjar?
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the central figure in this controversy, was shot dead in Canada’s British Columbia. He hailed from Punjab, India, and was the chief of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force. Nijjar was one of India’s most wanted terrorists, with a substantial cash reward offered for his capture or information leading to his arrest. He was implicated in various cases, including a 2007 bombing in Punjab and suspected ties to attacks on Indian diplomatic missions abroad.
The suspension of Indian visas for Canadians, amidst the ongoing dispute and diplomatic tensions, leaves several questions unanswered. As the two nations grapple with these complexities, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can ease the strained relations between India and Canada.