41 Canadian Diplomats Removed from India After Revocation of Immunity

Canada's foreign minister confirms that 41 diplomats and their dependents have been removed from India following the revocation of their diplomatic immunity. This action follows allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination of a Sikh separatist leader in Vancouver.

In a significant diplomatic development, Canada's foreign minister announced on Thursday that 41 of the country's diplomats have been expelled from India. This decision by the Indian government comes in response to Canadian allegations that India may have played a role in the assassination of a Sikh separatist leader in suburban Vancouver.

The Associated Press had previously reported that India had demanded Canada to withdraw 41 out of its 62 diplomats stationed in the country. The request followed accusations made by Canada suggesting potential Indian involvement in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader who was gunned down by masked assailants this June outside Vancouver. The slain leader, Nijjar, aged 45 and born in India but held Canadian citizenship, had long been accused by India of having terrorist links - an accusation he consistently denied.

Canadian Diplomats Removed From India

Addressing this issue, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly stated on Thursday that not only have all 41 diplomats been removed as per Indian demand but their dependents too have left the country. However, she also clarified that exceptions were made for 21 Canadian diplomats who will continue their tenure within India despite these recent occurrences.

Diplomatic Immunity Revoked: A Violation Of International Law?

Joly expressed her disagreement with this move by claiming it contradicts international law principles which uphold diplomatic immunity. She further emphasized that due to this very reason, Canada has decided not to retaliate against such actions taken by the Indian government.

India Calls For Reduction In Canadian Diplomats

This expulsion is also seen as a response to previous calls made by Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Bagchi had called for a reduction in Canadian diplomats residing in India, stating that their numbers far exceeded Indian diplomatic staff present in Canada.

Canadian Prime Minister's Stance

Last month, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had stated that there were "credible allegations" regarding Indian involvement in Nijjar's murder. This statement marked a significant escalation of tensions between the two nations and has led to the current diplomatic standoff.

In conclusion, the expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats from India marks a new low in Indo-Canadian relations. The situation is further complicated by Canada's refusal to retaliate against this move due to its violation of international law principles. As accusations fly and tempers flare on both sides, it remains to be seen how these two nations navigate through this diplomatic crisis while maintaining their long-standing bilateral ties.