Opposition Leader Abruptly Cancels Annual Diwali Celebration, Sparking Outcry from Indo-Canadian Community

In a move that has left Canada’s Indo-Canadian community disappointed, the 24th annual Diwali celebration on Parliament Hill was abruptly canceled by the Office of the Leader of the Opposition. The event, which has brought together Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs for over two decades, was called off without explanation. The cancellation has sparked frustration and raised concerns about systemic discrimination and a deepening rift between Canadian politicians and the Indo-Canadian population.

For 23 years, the Diwali celebration at Parliament Hill has been a symbolic event, honoring one of the most important festivals in the Indo-Canadian community and reflecting Canada’s pride in its multiculturalism. This year’s sudden withdrawal, linked to strained diplomatic relations between Canada and India, has left many feeling unjustly targeted and marginalized.

Shiv Bhasker, President of the Overseas Friends of India Canada, voiced the community’s disappointment, stating in an open letter to Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Opposition, that the event’s cancellation was not just a logistical issue but a “much deeper, more insidious problem.” Bhasker argues that the decision to cancel the event sends a clear message that the Indo-Canadian community is being viewed as outsiders, connected to the political actions of India rather than as fellow Canadians.

“This event was meant to celebrate Diwali, a festival deeply significant to Indo-Canadians and emblematic of Canada’s multiculturalism,” Bhasker wrote. “The sudden withdrawal of political leaders, due to the diplomatic situation between Canada and India, has left us feeling betrayed.”

The cancellation of the Diwali event comes amid heightened tensions between Canada and India, following diplomatic disputes. While many Canadians of Indian heritage are proud of their ancestral ties to India, they are also deeply invested in Canadian society. Bhasker’s letter emphasizes that the actions of a foreign government should not influence how the Indo-Canadian community is treated domestically.

“There is a failure to distinguish between the Indian government’s actions and the Indo-Canadian community,” Bhasker stated, adding that this decision has only reinforced harmful stereotypes and systemic biases. The Indo-Canadian population, numbering around 850,000, contributes significantly to the Canadian economy, holding prominent roles in business, academia, and the arts.

The letter calls for an apology from the Office of the Leader of the Opposition and demands tangible actions to address systemic racism. Bhasker’s letter reflects a community that feels abandoned by its political leaders at a time when cultural solidarity is essential. “This is not about just one canceled event; it’s about ensuring no community in Canada feels like second-class citizens,” Bhasker explained.

He also cautioned that the political fallout from this event could have longer-term implications. “We will remember our friends at the time of exercising our franchise,” Bhasker warned, highlighting the political consequences of alienating an influential and growing community.

The cancellation has raised important questions about how Canada navigates its multicultural identity amid political and diplomatic tensions. As Diwali symbolizes light, hope, and renewal, Bhasker and many others had hoped the event would have united Canadians across cultural lines. Instead, they believe this decision has deepened divisions.

The Indo-Canadian community now awaits a response from political leaders, hoping for meaningful engagement and a commitment to ensuring no community is sidelined due to international politics.

As Canada grapples with its evolving multicultural identity, this incident serves as a reminder that political decisions can deeply impact the lives of those who call this country home. The Indo-Canadian community, a pillar of Canada’s social and economic fabric, continues to stand firm in its Canadian identity, despite the challenges.