India resumes visa services for Canadians amid Diplomatic tensions | Fusion - WeRIndia

In a move aimed at defusing diplomatic tensions, India has announced the resumption of visa services for Canadians, marking a significant step in resolving a high-profile dispute concerning the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.

The decision to reopen visa services was made after a thorough review of the security situation, taking into account recent measures taken by Canada, according to a statement from the Indian High Commission. Starting Thursday, entry, business, medical, and conference visas will be available.

Also, emergency services will continue to be handled by the Indian High Commission and consulates in Toronto and Vancouver.

However, tourist, student, employment, and film visas are yet to be resumed. Their reinstatement will depend on evolving circumstances.

This development comes on the heels of Canada’s decision to recall 41 of its 62 diplomats in India. The country took the decision in response to India’s warning that it might strip diplomatic immunity from some Canadian officials—a move Canada interpreted as a breach of the Geneva Convention.

The Indian government had maintained that its actions were consistent with international law and aimed at achieving a balance in diplomatic presence in each country.

The rift between India and Canada deepened when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly alleged Indian intelligence involvement in the killing of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar. However, India dismissed the claim.

Nijjar was an advocate for a separate Sikh state. He was the most wanted on charges of terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder.

Canada had called for India’s cooperation in the investigation into Nijjar’s death and subsequently expelled an Indian diplomat, prompting a stern reaction from New Delhi.

As part of its countermeasures, India halted visa services for Canadians and advised its nationals to avoid travel to certain parts of Canada due to an increase in anti-Indian activities.

The resumption of visa services for Canadians is a positive step toward mending relations between the two nations.

It reflects a willingness to engage in dialogue and diplomacy to find common ground and restore mutual trust.

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