Canada Cancels Extra Screening Measures for Travelers to India Amid Diplomatic Tensions
Ottawa: Canada has reversed its decision to implement additional security screenings for travelers flying to India, just days after introducing the precautionary measures. The new rules, which were introduced amidst rising tensions between India and Canada, will no longer apply, and passengers will not face extra checks when traveling to India.
Canada’s Transport Minister, Anita Anand, had initially stated that these “temporary additional security screening measures” might lead to delays for passengers. However, the measures were withdrawn following diplomatic backlash and criticism from various quarters. International stakeholders, including trade and business associations, expressed concern over the potential disruption to travel and economic ties, further intensifying the pressure on the Canadian government to reverse the decision.
This decision comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations. Relations soured after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused agents from the Indian government of being involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist and Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver last June. Trudeau claimed to have received “credible information” about the involvement of Indian agents, which was reportedly shared with international intelligence partners, including the United States.
The allegations have fueled an already fragile diplomatic relationship. In the aftermath of the claims, both countries expelled diplomats, further straining communication channels. India expelled Canadian Charge d’Affaires Stewart Wheeler and five other diplomats in retaliation. Trudeau condemned India’s alleged support for activities against Canadians, calling it “absolutely unacceptable,” while India firmly rejected the accusations and called for a neutral investigation.
Nijjar, a leader of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, was a wanted criminal in India for several serious offenses, including the murder of a Hindu priest in Punjab. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had even announced a reward for information leading to his capture. The ongoing diplomatic tension centers on differing narratives surrounding Nijjar’s assassination, with India calling it an internal matter and rejecting any external interference.
In turn, India’s External Affairs Ministry dismissed Canada’s claims that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had knowledge of the plot to assassinate Nijjar, calling the allegations part of a “smear campaign.” The Canadian government later described the report as “speculative and inaccurate.”
The diplomatic standoff has not only affected bilateral relations but has also raised concerns about the broader implications for the global Indian diaspora and international security. Both sides have sought to mobilize their respective international allies in support of their positions, creating a complex web of geopolitical tensions. As both countries continue to engage in a diplomatic back-and-forth, the situation remains tense, with both sides defending their positions while the broader international community watches closely.
This incident underscores the growing importance of communication and transparency in international relations, with experts warning that unresolved disputes can escalate quickly and impact global diplomacy. The possibility of continued fallout remains high, and the world is watching to see whether this diplomatic crisis can be resolved without further escalation.
