World

Diplomatic Row Escalates As Indian Visa Services For Canadians Suspended

Swarajya Staff

Sep 21, 2023, 03:21 PM | Updated 03:33 PM IST


A file picture of US visa stamped on a passport.
A file picture of US visa stamped on a passport.

Amid diplomatic row between India and Canada over killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Indian visa services has been suspended for Canadian citizens till further notice.

A notice by BLS International - an online visa application centre that provides visa consultancy services – posted on its website that, “Important notice from Indian Mission: Due to operational reasons, with effect from 21 September 2023, Indian visa services have been suspended till further notice. Please keep checking BLS website for further updates", reports India Today.

The developments came three days after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged involvement of Indian government in the killing of Khalistan Tiger Force chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Following Trudeau's claim, the Canadian government expelled an Indian diplomat.

In response, India rejected the allegations, calling them "absurd" and "motivated" and also expelled a senior Canadian diplomat.

However, it is not yet clear if the suspension of visa services is linked to the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada.


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