In a rapidly developing diplomatic standoff between Canada and India, the focus remains on the recent killing of Canada-based pro-Khalistan activist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Surrey, British Columbia. The situation has intensified to the extent that Canada now alleges that it held extensive discussions with Indian authorities, making them aware of what they describe as “credible allegations” involving India and its intelligence agency in Nijjar’s death.
Foreign Minister Melanie Joly of Canada has disclosed the withdrawal of 41 Canadian diplomats from India after New Delhi threatened to revoke their diplomatic immunity. Joly has emphasized that her government maintained multiple dialogues with Indian officials prior to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s declaration in the Canadian Parliament regarding the aforementioned allegations.
The claims made by Canada have put diplomatic relations at risk, as India contemplates revoking the immunity of the 41 Canadian diplomats, a move considered “unprecedented” by Joly. She further stated, “India has decided to take their own decisions which are precedent-setting and revoking the diplomatic immunity of 41 diplomats is not only unprecedented but also contrary to international law.” Canada has expressed concerns that this could set a dangerous precedent affecting diplomats worldwide.
When questioned about the presentation of evidence to substantiate their allegations, Joly responded, “We’ve had numerous conversations with India before the Prime Minister went in front of the house and made his declaration. This was not a surprise to the Government of India, and through these different conversations, the Indian officials were made aware of the credible allegations.”
Canada has also announced the suspension of its consulate services in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is significantly reducing its workforce in India, resulting in potential delays in visa processing.
This ongoing dispute raises concerns about the diplomatic relationship between these two nations and has implications for the processing of visa applications, affecting a substantial backlog of 17,500 Canada visa decisions.
It is hoped that normal processing will be restored by early 2024. The situation remains fluid, and global diplomatic observers are keenly watching the developments.
