logo
Punjabis in the House: A record to cheer in Canada

Punjabis in the House: A record to cheer in Canada

First Post30-04-2025

A record 22 Punjabi-origin candidates were elected to Canada's House of Commons in the 2025 federal election. Among them, Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal won a sixth term, sparking celebrations in his native village in Punjab. Read on for more details. read more
22 Punjabi-origin candidates secured seats in Canada's House of Commons in the 2025 election.
Punjab's Sujapur village erupted in celebration on Tuesday (April 29) as native son Sukh Dhaliwal secured his sixth term in Canada's federal elections. Contesting on a Liberal Party ticket, Dhaliwal won from Surrey Newton, defeating Conservative candidate Harjit Singh Gill.
The 64-year-old businessman-turned-politician is among 22 Punjabi-origin candidates elected to the Canadian House of Commons this year. The Liberal Party, which emerged victorious in the federal polls, fielded several candidates of South Asian and Punjabi descent, reflecting the growing influence of the diaspora in Canadian politics.
STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Dhaliwal, who earlier represented Newton—North Delta, has now retained Surrey Newton for the third consecutive time after wins in 2011, 2015, and 2019.
Back in his native Sujapur village in the Jagraon region of Ludhiana, the mood was jubilant. Locals danced to dhol beats, burst crackers, and distributed sweets in celebration. His elder brother credited the win to Dhaliwal's deep connection to his roots and regular visits to the village.
Gurcharan Singh Grewal, general secretary of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Dhaliwal's former classmate, expressed pride over the win. 'He has always stayed close to the people of the village. It's a proud moment for all of us,' he said.
Two more candidates from Punjab's Moga district—Amanpreet Singh Gill (Calgary Skyview) and Sukhman Gill (Abbotsford–South Langley), both Conservatives—also emerged victorious, prompting celebrations in their respective hometowns.
Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan and AAP MLA from Moga Amandeep Kaur Arora congratulated the winners, expressing hope for stronger diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Canada.
Other prominent Punjabi-origin winners in the election include:
Anita Anand (Liberal, Oakville East), Bardish Chagger (Liberal, Waterloo), Anju Dhillon (Liberal, Dorval–Lachine), Randeep Sarai (Liberal, Surrey Centre), Dalwinder Gill (Conservative, Calgary McKnight), Arpan Khanna (Conservative, Oxford), Tim Uppal (Conservative, Edmonton Gateway)
Reacting to the results, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami called the victories 'a matter of great pride' for the Sikh and Punjabi communities globally. He attributed the success to the candidates' hard work, honesty, and humanitarian values, and urged them to uphold Sikh principles while serving in office.
STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Dhami also extended congratulations to the Liberal Party and its leader Mark Carney, commending their inclusivity and diverse representation.
A record 22 Punjabi-origin candidates were elected as Members of Parliament in the 2025 Canadian federal election, the highest ever, up from 20 in 2019 and 17 in 2021.
These winners represent both major parties: 12 are Liberals and 10 are Conservatives, showing strong cross-party support from the Punjabi community.
Out of 65 Punjabi-origin candidates who contested (across Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba), the successful MPs include 6 women and 6 turbaned Sikh men, reflecting the community's diversity.
Key results include:
* NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, one of the most prominent Punjabi-Canadian politicians, lost his seat in Burnaby Central and announced he will step down as party leader.
* Liberal minister Kamal Khera lost her Brampton West seat to Conservative Amarjit Gill.
* Liberal ministers Anita Anand (Oakville East) and Bardish Chagger (Waterloo) retained their seats.
* Conservative Tim Uppal held on to his Edmonton Gateway seat.
* Liberal Sukh Dhaliwal was re-elected in Surrey-Newton.
STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
This election marks a milestone for the Punjabi diaspora's influence in Canadian politics, with their largest-ever representation in Parliament.
(Input from other agencies)

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Indian diaspora in UK applauds PM Modi govt's 11-year milestone
Indian diaspora in UK applauds PM Modi govt's 11-year milestone

Hans India

timean hour ago

  • Hans India

Indian diaspora in UK applauds PM Modi govt's 11-year milestone

London: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks 11 transformative years at the helm of the Union government, members of the Indian diaspora in the United Kingdom (UK) are coming forward to express their admiration and pride in the nation's progress under his leadership. From professionals in London to community leaders in Slough town in Berkshire, a shared sentiment resonates among them: India's global stature has risen to unprecedented heights. They attribute this progress to PM Modi's commitment to stable governance, the uplift of millions from extreme poverty, advancements in India's Defence capabilities, and the positioning of the nation as a leading economic and cultural force on the world stage. Speaking to IANS, Indian-origin cancer scientist Vishal said, 'In the last 11 years, extreme poverty has fallen significantly, and India has become the fourth-largest economy. That's a powerful testament to growth and governance. "The changes are palpable; people now see us with respect. There are countless benefits that come with becoming the fourth-largest economy. Extreme poverty in India has dropped remarkably from 27.1 per cent in 2011-12 to just 5.3 per cent in 2022-23, paving the way for good job opportunities. "Furthermore, we are making significant strides in Defence, focussing on exports. Our purchasing power has also increased drastically. We are doing exceptionally well, and I hope PM Modi continues as Prime Minister for two more terms to witness even more developmental efforts.' Alok Gupta, Co-Founder and Director of the Indian Diaspora in the UK (IDUK) Group, emphasised India's leadership in digital transformation, the successful hosting of the G20 Summit, and the push for Defence self-reliance through the 'Make in India' initiative. 'Whether it's the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) or vaccine export, the world is now watching India. We have surged from the tenth to the fourth position among the world's economies, surpassing Japan. India is the fastest-growing economy globally. "During COVID-19, we not only produced vaccines for our citizens but also exported them. Under the 'Make in India' initiative, we are manufacturing everything domestically, including Defence equipment. In the recent conflict with Pakistan, we utilised indigenous equipment. It's commendable how we are emerging as an exporter in the Defence sector. "Hosting the G20 Summit in 2023 showcased our status as a world power. Digital transformations like UPI are further milestones that make us proud.' Many diaspora members also commended India's firm response to terrorism, particularly in light of the recent attacks in Pahalgam in which 26 people were killed. They noted how the abrogation of Article 370 has transformed Kashmir, enhancing tourism and local livelihoods. Another diaspora member residing in the UK stated, 'We are emerging as a world power. PM Modi has provided stable governance for two terms and is now in his third term. His leadership is remarkable. Additionally, he has facilitated a cultural exchange, as evidenced by Saudi Arabia embracing yoga. Recently, India has emerged as the world's fourth-largest economy.' Across interviews and public forums, the diaspora expressed a unified belief: Under PM Modi's leadership, India has not only reconnected with its civilisational pride but has also emerged stronger, prouder, and more united on the global stage.

J.D. Vance vows to deport Derek Guy for mocking his fashion; here's what we know
J.D. Vance vows to deport Derek Guy for mocking his fashion; here's what we know

Time of India

time2 hours ago

  • Time of India

J.D. Vance vows to deport Derek Guy for mocking his fashion; here's what we know

US Vice President JD Vance has sparked controversy by implying the deportation of Derek Guy, a well-known fashion commentator who operates the X account "Menswear Guy," following Guy's past critiques of Vance's fashion choices. Guy, who immigrated illegally from Canada as a child, recently shared his immigration story, prompting Vance's response. The exchange has drawn attention to broader immigration debates, with Guy advocating against mass deportation policies. Immigration background of Derek Guy Derek Guy detailed his family's journey to the US in a series of X posts. He explained that his family fled Vietnam during the Tet Offensive, eventually settling in Canada. His father worked as a janitor and his mother as a secretary. When his father's job ended, he moved to the US for work with his sister, staying longer than permitted due to unfamiliarity with immigration laws. Guy's mother followed, carrying him across the Canadian border as a baby. Guy noted, 'I'm still unsure whether we technically broke an immigration law. The border between Canada and the United States was pretty porous.' Lacking legal documentation, Guy identifies as an undocumented immigrant but emphasizes his deep ties to the US, having lived there since infancy. Support for immigration protests Guy has publicly supported protests in Los Angeles against the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, particularly ICE sweeps. He described these actions as 'inhumane' and praised protesters for their non-violent resistance. He argued that deporting millions of undocumented immigrants, like himself, is impractical, stating, 'It's unreasonable to expect that the government will deport some 10-20 million people. Even deporting 1 million will cause an insane amount of chaos, not to mention an incredible amount of wasteful government spending.' Guy shared his story to challenge stereotypes, noting, 'The purpose of sharing my story was to help push back against the idea that all undocumented immigrants are MS-13 members.' Vance's response and guy's retort The controversy escalated when Vance responded to Guy's immigration posts with a meme on X, suggesting deportation as 'the funniest thing ever.' The comment appeared to reference Guy's earlier lighthearted critiques of Vance's clothing style. In response, Guy posted, 'I think I can outrun you in these clothes,' maintaining a defiant tone. The exchange highlights tensions between personal criticism and political rhetoric, with Vance's deportation remark drawing scrutiny for targeting an individual over past jests.

Canada to hit NATO defence spending target in 2025, five years early, marking shift from US reliance
Canada to hit NATO defence spending target in 2025, five years early, marking shift from US reliance

Time of India

time3 hours ago

  • Time of India

Canada to hit NATO defence spending target in 2025, five years early, marking shift from US reliance

Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney walks Chief of the Defence Staff, General Jennie Carignan and Minister of National Defence David McGuinty, right, as he prepares to make an announcement at Fort York Armoury in Toronto, Canada, on Monday, June 9, 2025. (Chris Young/The Canadian Press via AP) Canada will meet NATO's 2% defence spending target this fiscal year, five years ahead of schedule, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced. The move marks a strategic shift in Canada's defence posture, with a focus on modernising military infrastructure and reducing reliance on the United States. The government plans to invest in new equipment, boost troop pay, and explore European defence partnerships. Carney's announcement reflects growing geopolitical tensions and a call for Canada to assert greater independence on the global stage. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Billions committed to military overhaul Ageing equipment and recruitment struggles Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads A strategic shift away from the United States NATO allies eye higher spending targets Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Turning to Europe for defence partnerships A new era of Canadian defence policy Canada will hit NATO's defence spending target of 2% of GDP this fiscal year, Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed on Monday. The announcement, made during a speech at the University of Toronto, marks a major policy shift and accelerates the timeline by five years from the previous Liberal government's plan.'I am announcing today that Canada will achieve NATO's 2% target this year — half a decade ahead of schedule,' Carney said. 'Now is the time to act with urgency, force, and determination.'The government will inject CA$9 billion into defence this year, raising total spending to CA$62.7 billion. This includes CA$2.5 billion allocated to defence-related activities in other departments, such as the Canadian Coast Guard, which will now be integrated into the laid out a sweeping plan to modernise Canada's armed forces. 'We will invest in new submarines, aircraft, ships, armed vehicles and artillery, as well as new radar, drones and sensors to monitor the seafloor and the Arctic,' he military has long faced operational challenges. 'Only one of our four submarines is seaworthy. Less than half of our maritime fleet and land vehicles are operational. More broadly we are too reliant on the US,' Carney said.A large portion of this year's spending will go toward repairing broken equipment and improving pay and benefits for military personnel. The aim is to address a severe recruitment crisis and restore operational readiness.'We will repair and maintain our ships, our aircraft and infrastructure that for too long we allowed to rust and deteriorate,' Carney speech signalled a clear pivot in Canada's defence posture. He warned that the world is becoming more dangerous and that Canada must reduce its reliance on the United States.'In a darker, more competitive world, Canadian leadership will be defined not just by the strength of our values, but also by the value of our strength,' he criticised the evolving role of the U.S. under President Donald Trump. 'The United States is beginning to monetise its hegemony: charging for access to its markets and reducing its (relative) contributions to our collective security. We should no longer send three-quarters of our defence capital spending to America.'Carney also addressed the historical alliance. 'We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Americans throughout the Cold War and in the decades that followed, as the United States played a predominant role on the world stage. Today, that predominance is a thing of the past,' he said in added that after the fall of the Berlin Wall, the U.S. became the global hegemon and Canada's dominant trading partner. But that era, he suggested, is announcement comes as NATO allies consider raising the bar. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said last week that most U.S. allies support Trump's call for members to spend 5% of GDP on defence.'We are meeting 2%. And that is the NATO target as it is today,' Carney said at a later news conference. 'We will need to spend more.' He confirmed that discussions on increased spending and timelines will take place at the upcoming NATO is actively seeking to diversify its defence procurement. Carney's government is reviewing the planned purchase of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets and exploring European alternatives.'We should no longer send three-quarters of our defence capital spending to America,' Carney reiterated. Canada is in talks with the European Union to join a broader EU initiative aimed at reducing security dependence on the shift aligns with a wider trend. Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, European allies and Canada have ramped up investments in weapons, ammunition, and military rise to power was fuelled in part by his promise to confront what many Canadians see as growing aggression from the Trump administration. Trump's past remarks suggesting Canada should become the 51st U.S. state have stirred national outrage.'The long-held view that Canada's geographic location will protect Canadians is increasingly archaic,' Carney said. 'A new imperialism threatens.'As told to CNN, defence analysts have welcomed the announcement. Margaret McCuaig-Johnston, a senior fellow at the University of Ottawa, called it 'a long-overdue announcement' and noted the challenge ahead. 'This significant commitment is remarkable given how quickly they're going to have to move to make 2% by the end of the fiscal year,' she she cautioned that more funding will be needed to fully realise the government's ambitious plans.(With inputs from Reuters, AP)

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store