India has lifted the suspension on e-visa services for Canadian citizens, signalling a positive turn in diplomatic relations. The decision, made on Wednesday, follows a two-month hiatus after India suspended all visa facilities for Canadians. The suspension stemmed from a controversy ignited by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who implicated Indian agents in the June 18 killing of Khalistan Tiger Force chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. India had initially halted visa services in all its missions in Canada, citing concerns for the safety of Indian officials targeted by Canadian nationals echoing Trudeau's remarks.
Last month, a security review of Indian missions in Canada preceded External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's assurance that visa services would resume when the security situation improved. The visa suspension became part of a broader disagreement between India and Canada, exacerbated by Trudeau's accusations in the Canadian Parliament on September 18. India responded with a blanket visa ban for all Canadian citizens worldwide and demanded diplomatic representation parity. The ongoing discord also impacted negotiations for an India-Canada trade pact. The resumption of e-visa services is seen as a positive development, suggesting a gradual normalization of visa facilities.
This move comes amidst recent diplomatic discussions, including the "2+2" dialogue with partner countries like the U.S. and Australia. While Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Mr. Jaishankar acknowledged the diplomatic spat with Canada during their bilateral dialogue, specific details were not disclosed.