India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated its call for a reduction in the number of Canadian diplomats stationed in India, citing their ongoing “interference” in India’s internal matters. The MEA spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, addressed this issue during a press briefing, highlighting India’s desire for parity in diplomatic presence between the two countries.
Bagchi stated, “Given the much higher presence of diplomats or diplomatic presence here…and their continued interference in our internal matters, we have sought parity in our respective diplomatic presence. Discussions are ongoing on the modalities of achieving this.” He emphasized that the Indian side expects a reduction in the number of Canadian diplomats to align with the principle of parity.
Responding to questions about the potential impact on visa issuance by the Canadian High Commission in India, Bagchi clarified that the decision to downsize the diplomatic presence and its consequences on visa processing are within Canada’s purview. India’s primary focus is on creating a conducive working environment for Indian diplomats in Canada and achieving a balanced diplomatic presence.
The call for reducing Canadian diplomatic staff in India comes two weeks after New Delhi initially requested Ottawa to downsize its diplomatic presence. The strained relations between India and Canada stem from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations of possible Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June. India vehemently rejected these allegations as “absurd” and “motivated,” leading to the expulsion of a senior Canadian diplomat in retaliation for Ottawa’s expulsion of an Indian official related to the case.
Recent reports in the Financial Times indicated that the Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, instructed Canada to repatriate 41 diplomats out of the 62 currently stationed in India by October 10. Canada maintains an embassy in New Delhi and consulates in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai.
The diplomatic relations between India and Canada have reached their lowest point in decades, primarily due to the allegations made by Prime Minister Trudeau. The ongoing discussions regarding the reduction in Canadian diplomatic staff reflect India’s commitment to achieving parity in diplomatic presence while addressing concerns related to perceived interference in internal matters. The resolution of this diplomatic issue will be closely watched as both countries seek to mend relations and restore a constructive dialogue.
