Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said India's actions are negatively impacting millions in both countries after Canada confirmed withdrawing 41 diplomats from India. Canada called India's move unreasonable and escalatory following India's demand to reduce Canadian diplomatic presence for parity. The fallout stems from Trudeau publicly alleging India's role in a Sikh separatist leader's killing, which India rejected and accused Canada of harboring terrorists. Trudeau said the diplomat expulsion will delay visa services in India. India accused the diplomats of interference in internal affairs amidst the diplomatic row triggered by Trudeau's accusations over the separatist leader's killing, which India denies.

The Royal Bahrain Hospital terminated Dr. Sunil Rao, an Indian-origin doctor, after he expressed support for Israel on social media amid the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, where nearly 3,000 people have died. The hospital stated that his tweets were offensive and violated their code of conduct. Dr. Rao issued an apology, acknowledging the insensitivity of his remarks. Meanwhile, concerns grow about a wider Middle East conflict, with increased attacks on US military bases in Iraq and Syria. Additionally, an American destroyer intercepted cruise missiles and drones launched by Yemen-based Houthi militants toward Israel.

Kerala-based Maryan Apparel is ceasing its long-standing contract to manufacture Israeli police uniforms due to moral concerns amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Managing Director Thomas Olickal cited the recent Gaza hospital strike and loss of innocent lives as reasons for the decision. The firm, which supplied around one lakh uniforms annually since 2015, will complete existing commitments but not accept new orders. This move reflects a growing trend of companies reevaluating their engagements in response to ethical considerations during the conflict.

After Canada withdrew its 41 diplomats from India, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement saying the move was warranted due to the higher number of Canadian diplomats in India, their continued interference in India's affairs, and the state of bilateral relations. The MEA said India's actions to implement parity in diplomatic presence are consistent with the Vienna Convention and cannot be portrayed as a violation of international norms. The statement rejects Canada's claim that India violated diplomatic norms by threatening to revoke diplomats' status. The MEA defends India's actions as legally justified given the circumstances. To read full statement, click on the link below 

Amidst the ongoing diplomatic dispute between India and Canada, India's request for Canada to reduce its diplomats has led to a slowdown in visa processing for Indians wishing to travel to Canada. Canada's Immigration Minister Marc Miller confirmed the slowdown, stating that India's move to remove immunities for all but 21 Canadian diplomats has necessitated reducing the Canadian staff in India from 27 to 5. While Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue accepting and processing applications from India, delays are expected due to reduced staffing levels. This development follows Canada's accusation against India regarding the murder of a Sikh activist in Canada, a claim strongly denied by India.

In response to escalating tensions between Canada and India, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory cautioning its citizens about potential "anti-Canada protests" and risks of "intimidation or harassment." This advisory follows the withdrawal of 41 Canadian diplomats from India after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's statement linking Indian government agents to the murder of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Consulates General of Canada in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai have temporarily suspended in-person operations, urging citizens to obtain consular assistance from the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi. Canadians in India are advised to maintain a low profile, avoid crowded areas, and travel with caution.

Canada has withdrawn 41 diplomats from India amid a dispute over Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations of a link between Indian agents and the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India threatened to revoke the diplomats' status if they didn't leave by a deadline. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said India's actions violated diplomatic norms but Canada won't retaliate. She facilitated the diplomats' safe exit, accompanied by 42 dependents. The withdrawal follows India asking Canada to reduce diplomatic staff after Trudeau's accusations, which India dismissed as absurd.

The High Commission of India in London hosted a Curtain Raiser event in collaboration with the Council of Leather Exports (CLE) on October 18, 2023, ahead of the 'Indian Leather and Footwear Products Show' taking place from October 19-20, 2023. During the event, Chairman of CLE, Sanjay Leekha, showcased recent accomplishments in India's leather industry. Speakers emphasized the potential of India's leather, footwear, and accessory sector. R. Selvam, Executive Director of CLE, presented an overview of the Indian Footwear and Leather Industry. Experts like Ms. Lucy Reece-Raybould and Dr. N. Mohan discussed investment trends in the Indian footwear sector. Over 40 Indian exhibitors attended the event, with representatives from British Footwear Association (BFA), and notable brands including Dr. Martens, Grenson, and more. The product show will be held at the Park Plaza Hotel, Westminster Bridge in London on October 19-20, 2023, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced the annual Diwali on the Square celebration will take place at Trafalgar Square on October 29. The free public event from 1-7pm will feature dances, music, activities, and food that capture the festival's spirit. Attendees can enjoy performances by London's Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities, yoga workshops, puppet shows, and more. Mayor Khan hailed the event as embodying Diwali's symbolic victory of light over darkness. The family-friendly festivities aim to showcase London's diversity. Organizers anticipate the landmark Diwali celebrations will draw Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds. (Image Courtesy: Greater London Authority)

Ravinder S Bhalla, the first Sikh mayor in the US, has revealed receiving racist death threats against him and his family. Bhalla, who was elected mayor of Hoboken, New Jersey in 2017, said he got letters asking him to resign and then threatening to kill him, his wife and kids. One letter read "It's time to kill you." Bhalla said there was a lot of hate and actual threats on his life and his children's lives. As a proud Sikh American, Bhalla wants people treated equally but this incident shows the need for serious security.