Indian-Origin MP Chandra Arya Loses Candidacy Over Stance Against Khalistani Extremism
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian-origin Canadian MP Chandra Arya, known for his strong stance against Khalistani extremism, has paid a price for his outspoken views. Canada’s ruling Liberal Party has revoked his candidacy for the upcoming elections. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Arya announced that the party had informed him that his nomination from the Nepean constituency had been canceled. He also shared a letter from the Liberal Party regarding the decision.
Chandra Arya wrote on social media that the party had withdrawn his ticket. According to the letter issued by the Liberal Party, the election campaign chairperson conducted a detailed review of Arya’s eligibility. Following this review, a recommendation was made to revoke his candidacy, which the party accepted. Arya called this decision "deeply disappointing" but said it would not diminish his honor and pride in serving the people of Nepean.
He wrote, "I have been informed by the Liberal Party that my nomination as a candidate for the upcoming general election in Nepean has been canceled. While this news is extremely disappointing, it does not take away the honor and privilege I have had of serving the people of Nepean – and all Canadians – as a Member of Parliament since 2015. Over the past several years, I have poured my heart and soul into this role. I take great pride in the work I have done as an MP, the unwavering service I have provided to the residents of Nepean, the principled stance I have taken on important issues for Canadians, and the causes I have stood for even in difficult times. Serving my community and country has been the greatest responsibility of my life, and I am grateful for every moment of it."
This incident has raised questions about the representation of the Hindu community in Canadian politics and the freedom of expression. Chandra Arya was elected to Parliament from the Nepean constituency and has long been vocal against Khalistani extremism and terrorism in Canada. He has repeatedly condemned violent activities by Khalistani protesters and called for unity to ensure the safety of the Hindu community.
Recently, he faced protests from Khalistani demonstrators during a Hindu event in Edmonton, after which his security was increased. Arya described this issue as a "Canadian problem" and urged the government to take strict action. After Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s controversial actions against Indian diplomats, Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu targeted Arya, accusing him of being an "agent of India" and calling for an investigation into his activities.
