OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has expressed his concerns about the Indian government's crackdown on Canadian diplomats, stating that it is making life difficult for millions of people in both countries. Trudeau's remarks came just a day after Canada announced the withdrawal of 41 diplomats in response to the Indian government's threat to unilaterally revoke their status.

Tensions between the two countries arose after Trudeau suggested last month that Indian agents may have been involved in the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada. India has vehemently denied these allegations, leading to a strain in bilateral relations.

During a televised press conference in Brampton, Ontario, Trudeau stated, "The Indian government is making it unbelievably difficult for life as usual to continue for millions of people in India and in Canada. And they're doing it by contravening a very basic principle of diplomacy." He expressed his concern for the well-being and happiness of the millions of Canadians who trace their origins to the Indian subcontinent.

Trudeau further highlighted the potential consequences of the diplomatic fallout, emphasizing that the expulsion of Canadian diplomats would hinder travel, trade, and create difficulties for Indian students studying in Canada. Currently, approximately two million Canadians, comprising 5% of the overall population, have Indian heritage. India also serves as Canada's largest source of global students, constituting roughly 40% of study permit holders.

The Indian foreign ministry, however, rejected the idea that it had violated the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations. In a statement, the ministry justified its stance, saying, "The state of our bilateral relations, the much higher number of Canadian diplomats in India, and their continued interference in our internal affairs warrant a parity in mutual diplomatic presence in New Delhi and Ottawa." As a result, Canada now has 21 diplomats remaining in India.

Support for Canada in this dispute also came from the U.S State Department. Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the department, said, "We have urged the Indian government not to insist upon a reduction in Canada's diplomatic presence and to cooperate in the ongoing Canadian investigation."

The tensions between Canada and India may have significant implications for diplomatic relations and the well-being of millions of people. It remains to be seen whether further negotiations and discussions will be able to resolve the current stand-off.