India has suspended tourist visas issued to Chinese citizens in a possible countermeasure against Beijing's refusal to let Indian students resume their studies in China.

The International Air Transport Association told its member carriers last Wednesday that "Tourist visas issued to nationals of China are no longer valid."

The Indian government has acknowledged this, but has not explained why the measure was taken.

New Delhi has taken issue with China's refusal to allow Indian students to re-enter the country due to travel restrictions put in place to address the coronavirus pandemic.

Media outlets in India are reporting that the visa suspension may be linked to this.

Relations between the two neighbors have been difficult, with both sides sending troops near their disputed border.