India suspended visa applications in Canada on Thursday due to unspecified security threats, escalating the diplomatic crisis between the two countries. The Canadian government accused the Indian government of orchestrating the extra-judicial killing of a Sikh separatist in Canada. However, New Delhi denies these allegations and accuses Ottawa of being sympathetic to anti-India causes. The suspension of visa services will affect Indian travel for Canadians, even if they apply in third countries. This move follows a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to exercise caution while traveling in Canada.
The feud between India and Canada has intensified with both countries expelling senior diplomats. India has demanded that Canada reduce its diplomatic staffing in India, claiming interference in its domestic affairs. On the other hand, the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi announced a temporary adjustment of staff presence after receiving threats on social media platforms. The situation between the two countries remains tense, with no specific information shared by Canada regarding the allegations.
Canada is home to a significant Sikh population, and tensions have risen due to allegations linking Indian government agents to the murder of an advocate for an independent Sikh homeland. India views Canada’s tolerance of Sikh separatism as an infringement on its internal affairs. The memories of past insurgency and the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1984 further contribute to concerns of a revival of the Sikh separatist movement.
The deepening rift between India and Canada has raised concerns among Ottawa’s closest allies, including Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The U.S. has expressed interest in partnering with India as part of its Indo-Pacific strategy. However, if the allegations of Indian government involvement in the murder are true, it could potentially derail this partnership and impact global dynamics.
The dispute between India and Canada has also affected trade talks, with Canada halting negotiations ahead of the recent G20 summit in New Delhi. This diplomatic crisis comes at a time when the Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, faces criticism for marginalizing minorities in the country.
Overall, the situation remains tense, and the diplomatic crisis between India and Canada could have far-reaching consequences for both countries and their international relationships.
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