 |
|
The cancellation of a Diwali celebration planned for Parliament Hill in Ottawa by Canada's opposition leader, Pierre Poilievre, has sparked significant backlash from the Indian community. The move comes amid strained diplomatic relations between Canada and India, particularly after Canada accused Indian diplomats of involvement in targeting pro-Khalistan individuals. The event, originally scheduled for October 30th, was to be hosted by Conservative MP Todd Doherty.
The organizers of the event, Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC), expressed their deep disappointment and frustration over the cancellation. In a letter to Poilievre, OFIC President Shiv Bhasker described the decision as discriminatory and insensitive. He emphasized that Diwali holds immense cultural significance for the Indo-Canadian community and represents the multicultural spirit that Canada values. Bhasker argued that the cancellation, seemingly driven by the current diplomatic tensions, unjustly singles out Canadians of Indian descent, who have no connection to the actions of the Indian government.
Bhasker further highlighted the presence of systemic bias in Canada, citing the cancellation as an example. He stated that the decision sends a message that Canadians of Indian heritage are not fully integrated into Canadian society. The Indian community, through OFIC, has demanded an apology from Poilievre and a concrete plan to address the perceived systemic racism and bias that led to the cancellation. They assert that mere statements of support are insufficient and demand tangible actions. Despite the initial cancellation, OFIC ultimately organized a separate Diwali celebration on November 23rd at the Cedar Hill Golf and Country Club in Nepean.
The controversy surrounding the cancelled Diwali event reflects the complex and delicate diplomatic relationship between Canada and India. The relationship has been strained by accusations from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that India has been involved in interference in Canadian affairs, specifically targeting South Asians. While Canada has not provided concrete evidence to support these claims, India has vehemently denied any involvement and characterized the allegations as absurd and malicious. The cancellation of the Diwali event, with its perceived connection to these ongoing diplomatic tensions, has further amplified the existing tensions and exposed a deeper underlying issue of potential discrimination against Canadians of Indian descent.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering inclusivity and understanding within multicultural societies. It underscores the need for political leaders to approach sensitive issues with caution and sensitivity, ensuring that their actions do not inadvertently perpetuate prejudice or marginalization against specific communities. Moving forward, it is crucial for both the Canadian and Indian governments to engage in constructive dialogue and seek to mend the fractured relationship, prioritizing a respectful and equitable approach to address the concerns raised by the Indo-Canadian community.
Source: "Insensitive Act": Canada Opposition Leader Cancels Diwali Event, Slammed