“OCI Services Unaffected as India Suspends Visa Services for Canadian Citizens Amid Diplomatic Tensions”
India’s suspension of visa services for Canadians does not affect the issuance of fresh Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards, providing clarity amid diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
In response to the recent suspension of visa services for Canadian citizens by India, there has been clarification that the issuance of fresh Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards remains unaffected. While confusion initially surrounded whether this suspension would apply to recent Canadian citizens who have surrendered their Indian passports and others of Indian origin applying for new OCI cards, a senior Indian official clarified, stating, “Suspension is only for visa services. OCI services are not affected by the suspension.”
The suspension of visa services was implemented due to concerns about the safety and security of Indian consulate staff in Canada, exacerbated by recent developments in the Canada-India relationship. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement in the House of Commons, where he referred to “credible allegations” of a potential link between Indian agents and the murder of Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar, contributed to the diplomatic tension between the two countries.
While the Ministry of External Affairs had assured that OCI services would continue without disruption, questions remained regarding whether this assurance applied to both existing OCI cardholders and new applicants. Arindam Bagchi, a spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized that those with valid visas or OCI cards can continue to travel to India.
The suspension of visa services was attributed to the failure of Canadian authorities to address incitement of violence against Indian diplomats, leading to the temporary halt in visa issuance and processing. However, there will be increased scrutiny of OCI applications, particularly concerning individuals of Indian origin in Canada involved in pro-Khalistan activities.
Trudeau’s allegations and the subsequent diplomatic fallout have strained relations between Canada and India, with both countries expelling diplomats. The secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has called for the shutdown of India’s mission in Canada on September 25, further escalating tensions between the nations.
Sources By Agencies
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