Conflict Arises as Tourists Face Visa Issues Between India and Canada

The announcement by India that it would suspend visa services for Canadian citizens has caused concerns among those planning to travel to the country. Explore India, a tourism company based in Vancouver, has been receiving non-stop calls from worried travelers. Radhika Sharma, an employee at Explore India, stated that people with already approved visas should be fine, but those who have not applied yet are uncertain about their chances of obtaining a visa. The visa suspension was a response to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's accusation that India might be involved in the murder of a Sikh separatist in Canada. India has called this allegation absurd. Canada is one of the top five countries from which visitors travel to India, with over 80,000 Canadians visiting in 2021. While the visa ban has less impact on the Indian-Canadian population, some individuals are questioning their future in the country. However, those with Indian citizenship or an Overseas Citizenship of India card can still freely visit India. The main concern for India is not travel itself but the alleged incitement of violence and disruptions to its high commission and consulates. This tension has caused Radhika Sharma, who is also a student in Canada, to reconsider her long-term plans and worry about her ability to stay in Canada or visit her family in India. The large Indo-Canadian population in Canada has deep ties to India, with many Indian residents immigrating to Canada, which makes the rift between the two countries significant. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested that Canada would not retaliate with a similar visa suspension, as he does not want to provoke further conflict with India. However, this situation raises concerns about the future economic relationship between the two countries, particularly in terms of trade and business relations. For companies working in India, the rift could have a significant impact. Despite the political tensions, Explore India reassures travelers that Indians are still welcoming tourists from Canada. While India has issued a travel advisory urging caution for its nationals visiting Canada, Ms. Sharma wants to maintain the harmony between the two countries and preserve opportunities and options for people in both nations.