Canada retrenches dozens of Indian staffers from diplomatic missions in India

Canada has recently decreased the number of Indian staff members in its diplomatic missions across India due to a shortage of Canadian personnel necessary for the effective management of in-country operations. This move comes in response to India's expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats last year, which aimed to achieve parity in diplomatic presence. Consequently, Canada had ceased in-person operations at its consulates in Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru.

While the exact number of retrenched employees remains undisclosed, it is understood to be less than 100. Confirming the staff reductions, a media relations official at the high commission expressed regret over the necessity of this decision, citing the departure of Canadian staff last year.

"We wish to extend our sincere gratitude to our local staff in India for their resilience, dedication, and service. Canada remains committed to providing essential services to Canadians in India, including consular support and facilitating trade and business development, to uphold the longstanding ties between our two nations," stated the official, noting that Canada's visa application centers in India continue to operate normally.


Despite the diplomatic strain, Canada emphasizes its enduring connections with Indian citizens, welcoming them for visits, work, study, or permanent residence in the country. India had not anticipated Canada's closure of consulate services, as its decision to expel diplomats aimed solely at achieving diplomatic parity between the respective high commissions in Delhi and Ottawa.

The diplomatic rift between India and Canada stemmed from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's accusation that Indian government officials were involved in the murder of Khalistan leader Hardeep Nijjar in the Vancouver area. In response, the Indian government accused Canadian diplomats of interfering in its internal affairs.

Trudeau reiterated his concerns about the Nijjar case during his testimony before a committee investigating allegations of foreign interference in Canadian affairs. He reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of Canadians, criticizing the previous Conservative government for its alleged close ties with the current Indian government.

"Our government remains steadfast in ensuring that anyone coming to Canada enjoys the rights and freedoms of a Canadian citizen, free from extortion, coercion, or interference from their country of origin. Our actions, including addressing the serious case of Nijjar's murder, underscore our dedication to defending the rights and freedoms that many have sought by coming to Canada," Trudeau emphasized.

(With inputs from TOI)