Canada's Oppn Leader Calls Off Diwali Event, Indian Diaspora Group Flags Racism

Canada's opposition leader Pierre Poilievre has cancelled Diwali celebrations that were scheduled to take place at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, drawing severe backlash from the Indian community. The move comes amid diplomatic tensions and worsening relations between the two countries - especially after Canada alleged Indian diplomats were involved in targeting pro-Khalistanis.

According to the organiser of the Diwali event, Shiv Bhasker - who is also the president of Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC) - they did not receive any explanation for the cancellation of the celebrations.

Calling it a "discriminatory" and "insensitive" act, Mr Bhasker, in a letter to Mr Poilievre, wrote: "This event was meant to be a joyous occasion to honour Diwali, a festival that is not only deeply significant to the Indo-Canadian community but also emblematic of the multicultural spirit that Canada prides itself on. However, 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."