India Suspends Visa Issuance for Canadians Amid Diplomatic Tensions

In response to the deteriorating diplomatic relations between India and Canada, India has temporarily halted the issuance of visas to Canadian nationals, as announced by BLS International, a private agency responsible for the initial evaluation of Canadian visa applications.

The strained relations were ignited after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the assassination of Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The rift deepened with the recent killing of another Khalistan terrorist in Canada.

The Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs had previously issued a travel advisory to Canadian citizens planning trips to India, advising against travel to certain areas, including Kashmir, and suggesting visits to places like Manipur and Assam only when absolutely necessary. Travelers were also cautioned to exercise caution throughout India.

In response to this advisory and the escalating tensions, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued its own warning to Indian students and citizens, urging them to exercise caution when visiting regions associated with Khalistani activities. Consequently, visa services for Canadians have been temporarily suspended.