Tensions between Canada and India are currently under close scrutiny in the Maritimes region.
According to experts in international development, India’s decision to suspend visa services in Canada is expected to have an impact, although opinions differ regarding the long-term consequences of this dispute.
Professors at Dalhousie University in Halifax have expressed concerns that this pause in visa services will disrupt travel plans, particularly with Diwali approaching. Nissim Mannathukkaren pointed out the predicament facing Canadians who have upcoming travel plans, stating that they might face difficulties if they’ve already booked their tickets and visa services remain suspended.
Robert Huish highlighted that numerous families across Canada have ties to India, and the suspension of visa services affects their ability to travel back to India, unless they hold Indian citizenship.
The root of this diplomatic standoff lies in the Canadian government’s accusation that India was involved in the murder of Canadian Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18th. Huish expressed concerns about the vulnerability of Indian students studying on Canadian campuses due to this dispute, emphasizing the need for support for these communities during this challenging period.
Huish also raised concerns about the impact on the technology sector, as many tech industries in Canada rely on support from India. He anticipates that tensions might affect business dealings between the two countries in the future.
However, Mannathukkaren remains optimistic and believes there’s no need for alarm.
The Nova Scotia government is closely monitoring the situation, recognizing it as a federal issue. Advanced Education Minister Brian Wong affirmed their commitment to observing the actions of the federal government.
In the midst of these turbulent times, Huish stressed the importance of kindness and understanding among people despite political tensions.