International Desk, 22nd November: After a hiatus of two months, India has decided to resume e-visa services for Canadians, suggesting a potential easing of diplomatic tensions. The recent decision follows the Indian government’s move last month to renew specific categories of visa services for Canadian citizens, which Ottawa hailed as “good news for Canadians.”
The restoration of e-visa services marks a significant step in repairing relations between the two nations, which faced strain due to Canada’s allegations of Indian involvement in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil earlier this year. The diplomatic dispute originated in June when Nijjar was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau subsequently made allegations in Parliament, citing “credible” links between Indian government agents and Nijjar’s killing, backed by US intelligence but lacking public evidence.
India has consistently denied involvement, dismissing the allegations as “absurd” and politically motivated. In response to Canada’s actions, India implemented various retaliatory measures, including expelling intelligence officers, reducing diplomatic staff, and issuing travel advisories. Notably, visa services for Canadian nationals were suspended in September, seen as a direct response to Canada’s claims.
The decision to ease visa restrictions signals a potential thaw in ties, aligning with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s previous indication of India’s willingness to relax these measures. Despite acknowledging a “difficult phase” in bilateral relations, the resumption of e-visa services reflects a positive development.
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