Pierre Poilievre

The leader of the opposition of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, cancelled the 24th Diwali celebrations on Parliament Hill, drawing a backlash from the Indo-Canadian community.

“The sudden withdrawal of political leaders from this event, prompted by the current diplomatic situation between Canada and India, has left us feeling betrayed and unjustly singled out,” said the President of Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC), Shiv Bhasker.

“By cancelling their participation, our political leaders have failed to draw a necessary distinction between the Canadian Indian community and the actions of the Indian government. In doing so, they have unwittingly reinforced the very stereotypes and racial biases they claim to stand against,” he added.

“Racism and discrimination are thriving in Canada, and this latest development has laid bare the systemic biases that still exist,” as per the statement.

Bhasker said “This is unacceptable. We are proud Canadians, and our identity is rooted in this country, not in the political machinations of another nation. The Indo-Canadian community has long contributed to the fabric of Canadian society. We are business owners, professionals, academics, artists, and community leaders.”

“We are your neighbours, your colleagues, and your friends. We are deeply invested in the success and prosperity of this country, and we take immense pride in being part of Canada’s multicultural mosaic,” he added.

The Indo-Canadian community has demanded an apology from the office of the LoP.

The letter was on behalf of 8,50,000 Hindu Canadians to the LoPs.

This action comes amid diplomatic tensions and worsening relations between the two countries.