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India has suspended visa services for Canadian nationals amidst escalating tensions between the two nations...
Digital Desk: India has suspended visa services for Canadian nationals amidst escalating tensions between the two nations. The move comes as a response to growing security concerns and anti-India activities in Canada.
BLS International, the organization responsible for managing visa application centers in Canada, posted a notice on its Canadian website, stating, "Due to operational reasons, with effect from September 21, 2023, Indian visa services have been suspended till further notice."
The suspension has been attributed to "operational reasons," though a Reuters report indicated that the notice was later withdrawn by BLS International, even though it was still displayed on their website at the time of this report.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India confirmed that Canadian citizens, regardless of their current location, would be unable to apply for Indian visas. Additionally, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi clarified that visas would not be granted to Canadians applying from other countries either.
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The MEA cited security threats faced by Indian officials at the High Commission and consulates in Canada as the primary reason behind the suspension of visa services. This marks the first time India has taken such a step since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Tensions between the two nations have been on the rise, with Canada recently announcing its pursuit of credible allegations linking Indian government agents to the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia in June. India has categorically denied these suspicions.
In response to the deteriorating situation, India issued an advisory to its citizens in Canada on Wednesday, urging them to "exercise utmost caution" in the face of increasing anti-India activities and politically condoned hate crimes. Indian students in Canada have been particularly cautioned to remain vigilant amidst these challenging circumstances.
The suspension of visa services for Canadians reflects the deepening divide and concerns between India and Canada, raising questions about the future of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
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