NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Cover photo: High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma. Graphic designed on Canva.
New Delhi, India, October 14, 2024: In a serious escalation of diplomatic tensions, the Indian government has recalled its High Commissioner and several diplomats from Canada, citing safety concerns. The decision was announced following a meeting between India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Canadian Charge d’Affaires.
“The Canadian Charge d’Affaires was summoned by Secretary (East) this evening. He was informed that the baseless targeting of the Indian High Commissioner and other diplomats and officials in Canada was completely unacceptable,” said a press release issued by MEA.
The Indian government expressed concern over the safety of its diplomatic staff, stating that the current atmosphere of “extremism and violence” in Canada, coupled with actions by the Trudeau government, had endangered the security of Indian diplomats.
“We have no faith in the current Canadian Government’s commitment to ensure their security. Therefore, the Government of India has decided to withdraw the High Commissioner and other targeted diplomats and officials. It was also conveyed that India reserves the right to take further steps in response to the Trudeau Government’s support for extremism, violence and separatism against India,” said the release.
This development marks an escalation in diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, following months of strained relations.