Canada’s opposition leader Pierre Poilievre has come under fire from the Hindu community after he canceled a planned Diwali celebration at Parliament Hill, a decision that has left many in the Indian diaspora feeling betrayed and marginalised. The event had been organised by the Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC).
The cancellation comes amid heightened tensions between Canada and India following allegations that Indian diplomats were involved in monitoring members of the pro-Khalistan movement in Canada, and that Indian government agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023.
The situation has led to diplomatic tensions and the expulsion of six Canadian diplomats from India in mid-October. India also recalled its High Commissioner and some diplomats over the allegations that have repeatedly been dubbed as “baseless” by the ministry of external affairs.
Many Hindu community leaders alleged that Poilievre’s decision to withdraw from the Diwali event reflects broader issues of systemic bias against Canadians of Indian descent.
In an open letter, OFIC president Shiv Bhasker expressed disappointment over the cancellation. “It is with extreme disappointment and in sadness that I am writing this letter to you [Pierre Poilievre] to voice our dismay at the Office of the Leader of Opposition cancelling the 24th Diwali celebration on the Parliament Hill … The failure of the politicians to attend this important cultural event, particularly at such a delicate time, sends a clear message to Indo-Canadians: that we are being viewed not as fellow Canadians but as outsiders who are somehow linked to the political actions of a country many of us have ancestral ties to but no direct connection with … This event was meant to be a joyous occasion to honor Diwali … Yet, the sudden withdrawal of political leaders has left us feeling betrayed and unjustly singled out.”
No explanation
The lack of a clear explanation for the cancellation has only intensified feelings of alienation within the community.
Social media reactions have been swift and critical. Many users expressed their discontent, with one commenter stating, “It’s going to cost you a lot! You kicked the opportunity of yourself being PM of Canada.”
Pierre Poilievre is increasingly seen as a likely successor to PM Justin Trudeau amid growing discontent within the Liberal Party and a significant shift in public opinion.
With Trudeau facing mounting pressure and a declining approval rating, Poilievre is poised to capitalise on the political landscape as the next federal election approaches.
Recent polls indicate that the Conservative Party holds a commanding 20-point lead over Trudeau’s Liberals, whose support has dropped to a new low. This shift comes as Trudeau seeks a historic fourth term, but internal strife within his party has raised questions about his leadership. Several Liberal MPs have reportedly called for Trudeau to step down, citing concerns that his continued leadership could jeopardize their chances in the upcoming election, slated for October 2025.
The cancellation has also sparked discussions about identity and belonging within Canada. Bhasker articulated a significant concern: “By distancing themselves from these cultural celebrations, politicians send a message that we are somehow less Canadian because of our ancestral ties.”
As November approaches, plans for an alternative Diwali celebration are underway at Cedar Hill Golf and Country Club in Nepean.
The OFIC has called for an apology from Poilievre as part of their demand for recognition and respect within Canada’s political landscape.
‘Clear message of exclusion’
The Hindu Forum on Canada said the move sends a clear message of exclusion to the community.
“A move that sends a clear message of exclusion to a community deeply woven into Canada’s cultural fabric. Diwali, a festival symbolizing light and unity, is celebrated worldwide, with leaders like US President Biden and astronaut Sunita Williams honoring it with great respect. Yet, CPC leader Pierre Poilievre has shown a concerning disregard for Canadian Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains. This decision is a politically motivated act of appeasement that dismisses a significant, vibrant part of Canadian society,” a statement from the Hindu Forum said.
The organisation called on Indian origin people in Canada to vote for leaders who stand by all Canadians.
“Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains in Canada–nearly 2.5 million strong–are rapidly growing communities that have made meaningful contributions across fields, from science to education. Mutual respect among communities is what strengthens Canada, but it seems CPC leadership does not uphold this principle when it comes to these communities. It’s crucial for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains to stand united against decisions that show a lack of respect for our culture and beliefs. In the upcoming federal elections, let’s choose wisely. Pierre Poilievre is not yet Prime Minister, yet his true colors of appeasement politics show through by canceling Diwali celebrations. If he were to become Prime Minister, what further tactics might he use? Our votes should go to leaders who genuinely respect and stand by all Canadians, and we must make our voices heard. This Diwali, let’s stand together for representation, respect, and true inclusivity,” the statement said.
(With inputs from agencies)