New Delhi: A high commission official confirmed the staff reductions, stating that the decision was a direct consequence of the decreased number of Canadian personnel, which affected the ability to manage and maintain operations within India effectively. Despite the cutbacks, the official assured that core services, including consular support and trade and business development, will continue uninterrupted, ensuring that the strong bilateral ties between Canada and India are upheld.
The Canadian government has emphasized its commitment to welcoming Indian citizens for various engagements such as visits, work, study, or permanent residency, indicating that visa application centers in India will function as usual.
The root of the diplomatic strain can be traced back to October when Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly disclosed that 41 out of 62 Canadian diplomats, along with their families, were removed from India amidst a dispute sparked by the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Nijjar in Canada. India justified the expulsions as a measure to achieve diplomatic parity.
Tensions escalated further when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian officials of being involved in Nijjar’s murder, an allegation that India vehemently denied, countering with accusations of Canada harboring anti-India activities. In a recent testimony before a committee investigating foreign interference, Trudeau reiterated his concerns regarding the Najjar case, highlighting the complexities of international relations and the challenges faced in maintaining diplomatic decorum.
