In the midst of an escalating diplomatic dispute between India and Canada, concerns are emerging regarding potential ramifications, including the impact on visa processing for Indian citizens. This dispute follows Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent allegations linking Indian government agents to the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim that India swiftly dismissed as “absurd.”
Reports suggest that India has requested Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence in the country, specifically asking for the withdrawal of 41 out of 62 diplomats stationed at Canadian missions in India. While there has been no official response from the Canadian side regarding the removal of its officials or the potential consequences of such a withdrawal, experts believe that this move could affect the processing of Canadian visa applications for Indian nationals.
Canada maintains a substantial diplomatic presence at its high commission in New Delhi and consulates in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai to handle the high volume of visa applications from Indian citizens. Any significant reduction in diplomatic personnel is likely to impact visa processing services, potentially leading to delays and disruptions.
While both sides have engaged in tit-for-tat expulsions of senior diplomats, diplomatic efforts continue, with Canada’s Foreign Minister Melanie Joly stating that Ottawa is in contact with New Delhi on the matter. Joly emphasized the importance of private diplomatic discussions for resolving the dispute.
The current situation is noteworthy because India has rarely asked another nation to reduce its diplomatic presence in the country, with Pakistan being a notable exception. In the past, India and Pakistan have downsized diplomatic relations during periods of heightened tensions.
The size of a country’s diplomatic presence in India often reflects the overall status of bilateral relationships. For example, the United States has significantly increased the number of diplomats posted in India to manage the growing demand for visas and expanded cooperation across various sectors.
India is presently the leading source of foreign students in Canada, with approximately 230,000 Indian students studying in Canadian institutions. This diplomatic row has raised concerns about potential financial impacts on educational institutions in the Canadian province of Ontario, some of which heavily rely on tuition fees from international students, including Indians.
Businesses in regions like Surrey, which has a significant South Asian population, are also expressing concerns about the uncertain business climate resulting from the diplomatic tensions. The dispute’s implications on trade and family ties between the two nations have prompted apprehensions in various sectors.
As the diplomatic standoff continues, stakeholders in education, business, and diplomacy are closely monitoring developments that could influence visa processing and international relations between India and Canada.
Sources By Agencies
