Hindu Flag on Canada’s Parliament Hill - MP Chandra Arya’s Powerful Statement on Canadian Politics pointing ‘underrepresentation’

Sucheta Singh | HENB | VSB | Ottawa | Nov 3, 2024: Indian-origin Canadian MP Chandra Arya made a significant statement by raising the Hindu flag– a traditional saffron flag with the symbol ‘Om’,  outside Canada’s Parliament in Ottawa during Diwali, emphasizing that Hindus are underrepresented in politics despite their substantial contributions to the country. This symbolic gesture marked the beginning of Hindu Heritage Month in November. Arya’s call to action encourages community members to engage more deeply in Canada’s democratic process.

Arya’s efforts are particularly noteworthy, considering the Indian-origin community’s growing influence in Canada. Indians comprise around 4% of the Canadian population and are one of the fastest-growing demographic groups. In fact, over 20 Indian-origin politicians have been elected to the Canadian Parliament, showcasing the community’s increasing presence in politics.

Chandra Arya, a Hindu Canadian MP, has made history by raising the Hindu flag outside Canada’s Parliament in Ottawa for the third time since 2022, marking the beginning of Hindu Heritage Month. This annual observance celebrates the rich cultural, intellectual, and spiritual legacy of Hinduism. Arya’s gesture holds special significance, given his vocal stance against Khalistani extremism.

“We raised the Hindu flag with our sacred symbol Aum on Parliament Hill grounds to mark the beginning of the Hindu Heritage Month this November. As mentioned when I raised the flag for the first time in 2022, a new era for Hindus in Canada has begun,” he tweeted.

“We are one the most educated and successful communities in Canada, making solid and positive contribution to Canadian society and economy. While we Hindus are punching above our weight in every sector of Canadian society, we are underrepresented in the political sphere. I again call on my fellow Hindus to get more involved in our democratic process. Happy Hindu Heritage Month!” Arya said.

Arya’s action came a day after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently extended his Diwali greetings, reassuring Hindu Canadians of his government’s commitment to their safety and security. This pledge is particularly significant amid rising concerns about Khalistani extremism and the vandalism of over two dozen Hindu temples in Canada since 2022. Trudeau’s statement marked his first acknowledgement of the recent attacks on the Hindu community, and while some have expressed scepticism, it’s a crucial step towards addressing their concerns.

Trudeau’s message emphasized the importance of Hindu Canadians to the country’s fabric, highlighting their valuable contributions. His commitment to ensuring their safety and security comes at a critical time, especially given the diplomatic tensions between India and Canada surrounding Khalistani extremism.

“Diwali in Canada would not be possible without our incredible Indo-Canadian community. Indo-Canadians represent the best of Canada – as artists and entrepreneurs, as doctors and teachers, as leaders in business, community, and culture. On Diwali, we celebrate them and the light they carry across Canada’s communities,” Trudeau wrote in his X handle.

The diplomatic tensions between India and Canada have been escalating, particularly after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Khalistani separatist leader, on Canadian soil . This allegation was strongly denied by India, which led to a significant downturn in relations between the two countries.

The situation has been further complicated by the defacement of Hindu temples and violent acts by pro-Khalistanis in Canada, which Chandra Arya, a Hindu Canadian MP, has been vocal against. Arya’s concerns highlight the growing unease among the Hindu community in Canada.

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__Inputs from Agencies.