India-Canada diplomatic row: India starts online visa services again for Canadians; sources say pause was due to tensions

India-Canada Diplomatic row: India has made the decision to restart e-visa services for Canadian citizens after a pause lasting two months, according to insider sources. This move hints at a possible reduction in diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

Just last month, the Indian government had announced the renewal of visa services for Canadians following a one-month suspension. Ottawa had greeted this decision as positive news for its citizens. The resumption of e-visa services holds significant importance in repairing the strained relationship between India and Canada. The rift emerged primarily due to Canada's allegations of Indian involvement in the murder of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil earlier this year.

The diplomatic feud ignited in June when Nijjar was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, subsequently citing intelligence reports, raised assertions in Parliament about credible connections between Indian government agents and Nijjar's assassination. While these claims were backed by US intelligence assistance, they have yet to be supported with public evidence.

India has vehemently denied any participation in the incident, dismissing the allegations as baseless and driven by political motives. In response to Canada's accusations, India retaliated with several measures, including the expulsion of intelligence personnel, reducing diplomatic staff, and issuing travel advisories. Notably, the suspension of visa services for Canadians in September was seen as a direct reaction to Canada's claims.

The decision to ease visa restrictions now potentially indicates a thaw in relations. India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, had previously hinted at the country's willingness to relax these stringent measures.

- With inputs from agencies

Join Whatsapp Channel