India has taken the extraordinary step of indefinitely suspending visa services for Canadian citizens amidst rising tensions between the two nations. This decision follows a diplomatic fallout triggered by the assassination of Khalistanist militant Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
The background to this decision involves mounting tensions between the two nations due to accusations surrounding Nijjar's murder. Both countries had previously expelled each other's diplomats, and now this dispute has extended to visa services. Canada had issued advisories warning its citizens against travel to sensitive areas, including Jammu and Kashmir, leading India to advise its citizens and students in Canada to exercise caution due to an increase in anti-Indian sentiments and hate crimes.
BLS International, the operator of the visa application center in Canada, announced the indefinite suspension of Indian visas, starting from September 21. While there hasn't been an official announcement from India, this marks the first instance of such a measure since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The root of the tensions can be traced back to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot outside a gurudwara in June. Nijjar's associates have accused India of involvement in his killing. Furthermore, another gangster, Sukha, was recently killed in Canada, further exacerbating tensions.
India has expressed dissatisfaction over what it perceives as Canada's support for pro-Khalistan elements, an issue that has been a recurring point of contention. This matter was also discussed during Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's visit to India.
The suspension of visa services adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing tensions between India and Canada, raising concerns about the impact on Canadian citizens, particularly Indian students.
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