Canada has accused India of unilaterally revoking the diplomatic immunity of Canadian diplomats in India, asserting a violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (VCDR).
Allegations and Misunderstandings
Misinterpretation of Diplomatic Actions: Canada alleges India revoked diplomatic immunity, but India demanded reduction based on parity. No diplomats declared persona non grata.
Article 9 of VCDR: India holds the right to declare diplomats persona non grata, a prerogative under Article 9 of the Vienna Convention.
Subjective Determination of Reasonable Mission Size: Article 11(1) of VCDR allows the receiving state (India) to decide what “reasonable and normal” regarding mission size.
International Precedents and Legal Grounds
UK's Action against Soviet Union: The UK imposed a ceiling on the Soviet Union mission due to inappropriate activities, invoking Article 11 of the VCDR.
US Limitation on Iranian Diplomats: The US used its authority to limit Iranian diplomats based in Washington.
Moldova and Estonia’s Similar Actions: Moldova and Estonia asked Russia to downsize its mission based on the principle of parity, citing Article 11 of the VCDR.
Legal Framework and Call for Trust Restoration
Article 41(1) of VCDR: Canadian diplomats interfering in India’s internal affairs could be a breach of the VCDR.
Diplomatic Relations Act of 1972: India’s legal framework empowers the government to restrict privileges for non-compliance with VCDR obligations.
Need for Trust-Building Measures: Trust deficit between India and Canada requires efforts from both sides. Accusations harm relations and require resolution through diplomacy.