Ottawa, Canada has witnessed a significant decrease in the number of study permits issued to Indian students following a diplomatic dispute between the two countries. This decline is linked to the ejection of Canadian diplomats from India who were responsible for processing these permits, as well as a reduced number of applications from Indian students due to the diplomatic tensions.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the dispute arose over the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated in June that there was evidence suggesting the involvement of Indian government agents in the murder. This led to escalated diplomatic tensions between Canada and India.

Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller, in an interview, expressed his belief that the number of study permits issued to Indian students is unlikely to rebound soon due to the ongoing tensions. He noted that the strained relationship has significantly affected Canada’s ability to process applications from Indian students.

In October, following directives from New Delhi, Canada had to withdraw 41 diplomats, constituting two-thirds of its staff in India. Additionally, the dispute has influenced Indian students to seek educational opportunities in other countries, spokeswoman for the minister.

This development marks a notable impact of diplomatic relations on educational exchanges between Canada and India, indicating a shift in the dynamics of international student mobility.