On Thursday, India made the decision to suspend its visa services for Canada indefinitely, citing heightened security threats faced by its high commission and consulates in the country. This move comes against the backdrop of an ongoing dispute between the two nations related to the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), addressed the issue, stating, “You are aware of the security threats being faced by our high commission and consulates in Canada. This has disrupted their normal functioning. Accordingly, our high commissions and consulates are temporarily unable to process visa applications. We will be reviewing the situation on a regular basis.”
The strained relations between India and Canada escalated when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Nijjar back in June. India has vehemently denied these allegations, dismissing them as ‘absurd’ and ‘motivated.’
This suspension of visa services underscores the gravity of the security concerns and reflects the ongoing tensions between the two countries over this controversial issue. Both nations will likely continue to engage in diplomatic discussions in an effort to resolve the situation and restore normalcy to their relations.
Canada Reduces Diplomatic Presence in India Amid Security Concerns
Canada has taken the decision to reduce its diplomatic staff in India due to escalating security concerns. Global Affairs Canada reported that some diplomats have faced threats on social media platforms. This development follows Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent claims, suggesting the involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani extremist Nijjar on Canadian soil.
India promptly refuted these allegations, deeming them ‘absurd’ and denying any involvement in the tragic incident that occurred on June 19th, where Hardeep Singh Nijjar lost his life.
Suspension of Indian Visa Services for ‘Operational Reasons
In response to the evolving situation, BLS International, the organization responsible for processing Indian visas, has announced the suspension of Indian visa services “till further notice.” They urge individuals to regularly check the BLS website for updates regarding the resumption of visa services.
This suspension, attributed to ‘operational reasons,’ further underscores the complex and sensitive nature of the current diplomatic tensions between the two nations. The situation remains fluid, with both countries working to address security concerns and seeking a path toward resolution.
Notorious Khalistan-Linked Gangster Sukha Duneke Gunned Down in Canada
In a chilling development, Sukhdoon Singh, widely known as Sukha Duneke, a gangster who had taken a menacing turn towards terrorism, met a grim fate as unidentified assailants fatally shot him in the Winnipeg area of Canada. Intelligence sources confirmed the incident.
Sukha Duneke, originally hailing from Moga in Punjab, had disturbing ties to the infamous Khalistan Tiger Force, closely associating with designated terrorist Arsh Dalla. The duo had been actively involved in attempts to revive the outfit following the killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar by rival factions earlier this year. Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi claimed responsibility for Duneke’s assassination, further adding to the intrigue surrounding this incident.
Canadian MP Raises Concerns Over Extremist Elements
Meanwhile, in Canada, Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya has raised alarming concerns about extremist elements targeting and intimidating Hindu-Canadians, pressuring them to return to India. Arya, who belongs to the Liberal Party of Canada, the same party as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has called upon all Hindu Canadians to remain composed, and vigilant, and report any untoward incidents to law enforcement agencies.
Arya expressed his dismay at the “glorification of terrorism” and the perpetration of hate crimes in the name of ‘freedom of expression.’ This development underscores the challenges faced by the Canadian government in managing the delicate balance between freedom of speech and the prevention of extremism, particularly concerning the Sikh separatist movement.
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