In order to further escalate the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, India has suspended visa services in Canada until further notice, according to the BLS Visa Application Center in Canada.
“Due to operational reasons, effective September 21, 2023, Indian visa services have been suspended until further notice. Please continue to monitor the Bureau of Labor Statistics website for further updates.” The Bureau of Labor Statistics website flashed an important message from the Indian Mission notify.
New Delhi on Wednesday issued a warning to Indian nationals in Canada, including students, to exercise caution while traveling in the country.
“Given the growing anti-India activity in Canada, the political condoning of hate crimes and criminal violence, all Canadian citizens and Indian citizens considering travel should exercise extreme caution. Recently, threats have been particularly targeted at Indian diplomats and those within the Indian community speaking out against anti-India part of the agenda.”
Relations between India and Canada soured on Monday after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed in a parliamentary speech that India may have had a hand in the assassination of Canadian citizen Sikh separatist activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. and expelled a senior Indian diplomat.
India strongly denies the accusation and has also expelled a Canadian diplomat and accused Canada of harboring terrorists and Khalistan supporters. The report says Canada’s inaction against extremists is a long-term concern.
The Canadian government on Wednesday rejected India’s suggestion and said Canada was a safe country.
