International

India Halts Canadian Visas Amid Tensions

India has taken the step of temporarily suspending the issuance of visas to Canadian citizens due to what it cites as "security threats" that have disrupted the normal operations of its missions in Canada.

In a recent development, India has taken the step of temporarily suspending the issuance of visas to Canadian citizens due to what it cites as โ€œsecurity threatsโ€ that have disrupted the normal operations of its missions in Canada. This move comes amidst a rising dispute surrounding the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.

Tensions between the two nations escalated this week when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested that India may have played a role in the assassination that occurred on June 18. However, Mr. Trudeau clarified that his intent was not to provoke India with these allegations.

India has strongly rejected these allegations, labeling them as โ€œabsurd.โ€ During his remarks at the UN General Assembly in New York, Mr. Trudeau emphasized the growing importance of India as a nation and the need to maintain a working relationship. He stressed that Canadaโ€™s focus is on upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of its citizens, rather than creating further issues with India.

The bilateral relationship between India and Canada, both of which are key trade and security partners and allies of the United States, has been strained for several months and is currently at an all-time low, as per analystsโ€™ assessments.

Indiaโ€™s government has made it clear that the suspension of visa services also applies to Canadians situated in third countries. This decision stems from security threats directed at Indian diplomatic missions in Canada, leading to disruptions in their normal functioning. India is seeking diplomatic parity with Canada, citing interference in its internal affairs as a reason for this demand.

In response, Canada has announced a reduction in its diplomatic personnel in India, citing threats received by some of its diplomats on social media. This move is aimed at ensuring the safety of their diplomatic staff while continuing to offer visa services within India.

The relationship between these two nations is historically close, with significant interests at stake. Canada boasts a sizable population of Indian origin, particularly among the Sikh community. India, on the other hand, is a major source of international students for Canadian institutions. Additionally, a substantial number of Canadian tourists visit India annually. Hence, resolving these tensions is crucial for the benefit of both countries.

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Rajya Sabha Unanimously Passes Womenโ€™s Reservation Bill

Zaina Afzal Kutty
In a momentous occasion for gender equality in India, the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of Parliament, passed the Women's Reservation Bill with unanimous support.

In a historic moment for Indiaโ€™s ongoing journey towards gender equality, the Rajya Sabha, the esteemed Upper House of Parliament, achieved a remarkable feat by unanimously passing the Womenโ€™s Reservation Bill. Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated this achievement, emphasizing that the unity displayed among the members would undoubtedly boost public confidence in the political process.

Also Read: Womenโ€™s Reservation Bill: A Political Odyssey

The bill, officially known as the Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill but aptly named the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, garnered unreserved support, with all 214 members present casting their votes in favor. This momentous occasion was marked by enthusiastic applause and desk-thumping, underscoring the profound significance of this legislative triumph. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar fittingly described it as a โ€œhistoric achievement.โ€

A day earlier, the bill had received approval from the Lok Sabha, the Lower House of Parliament, further underscoring the broad consensus across party lines on this critical issue. The debate in the Rajya Sabha was a rich tapestry of expressions, featuring poetic verses and couplets, with a total of 72 speakers participating. A notable feature was the rotation of female members in moderating the discussion, underscoring the vital importance of female representation in the legislative process.

While the unanimous passage of the bill marks an extraordinary leap towards empowering women in politics, some members of the Opposition voiced concerns about the delayed implementation and the absence of separate reservations for Other Backward Class (OBC) women within the 33% reservation. In response, the government cited various initiatives aimed at supporting women to address these concerns.

As the Womenโ€™s Reservation Bill edges closer to becoming law, it symbolizes a profound stride forward in Indiaโ€™s pursuit of gender equality. It guarantees that women will wield a more substantial presence and voice in the nationโ€™s political landscape, heralding a new era characterized by inclusivity and representation. This historic moment stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring women throughout the nation to actively engage in shaping the future of India.

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