India resumes E-Visa services for Canadians after 2-month suspension amid diplomatic strain
India has resumed the e-visa services for Canadians after 2-month suspension amid diplomatic strain between the two nations.
New Delhi: India has lifted the two-month-long suspension on e-visa services for Canadians, signaling a potential thaw in diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
Amidst a diplomatic row that arose after Canada was accused of sheltering and supporting Khalistani terrorists, India had initially suspended visa services. The strain heightened following the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
The diplomatic rift intensified on November 12 when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged India’s involvement in Nijjar’s killing. Trudeau called for a thorough investigation, prompting swift action from the Indian government, which sent notices to several Canadian diplomats in India.
Trudeau further accused New Delhi of violating the Vienna Convention, alleging that India expelled 40 diplomats at a time when Canada sought international cooperation to investigate the murder.
Trudeau stated, “From the very beginning, when we learned of credible allegations that agents of the Indian government were involved in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil, we reached out to India to ask them to work with us in getting to the bottom of this matter.”
In a move to potentially mend relations, India has now resumed e-visa services for Canadians. The decision indicates a willingness to de-escalate tensions and foster dialogue between the two nations.
In an additional gesture to ease tensions, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed his participation in the virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit hosted by India. Trudeau’s attendance in the meeting comes amid a prolonged diplomatic standoff, emphasizing a commitment to international cooperation.
Ms Kalinga