MUMBAI: The emergence of Canada-based lawyer turned politician Jagmeet Singh as a strong candidate against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has left the Sikh community groups in the city buzzing with congratulatory messages and posts.
It is not only a proud moment for the community but for the country since a man of Indian origin has risen in a foreign land, said former DGP P.S. Pasricha.
“We hope that he propagates the philosophy of oneness and universal brotherhood, and remains magnanimous to his non-supporters as well,” said Mr. Pasricha, who is also a member of the International Punjabi Forum.
Mr. Singh, known for his style and calm demeanour, has his roots in Punjab. His parents had migrated to Canada, and Mr. Singh was born in Scarborough, Ontario. In 2013, the lawyer was denied visa to India allegedly due to his criticism of the anti-Sikh riots, 1984. Mr. Singh is also said to have protested against Congress leader Kamal Nath’s visit to Canada.
We have a different government now, said Jasbir Singh Dham, vice president of Punjab Association of Mumbai. “We will invite Mr. Singh to India for a felicitation event.” Mr. Dham also said that there was a similar excitement when Manmohan Singh became the Prime Minister.
Mr. Singh was elected as the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) of Canada. The party’s website said, “As leader, he will attack some of the most challenging issues of our time: inequality, electoral reform, indigenous reconciliation and climate change; to build a Canada where no one is left behind.” He is also known for his pro bono work for social justice and immigrant and refugee rights.
“He is the first non-white to head a political party in Canada. We wish him best in his endeavours,” said Satnam Singh Dham, president of Sri Guru Nanak Sewak Jatha, Mumbai.
A lot of people first heard of him through a video in which he maintained his calm when a woman stormed into his campaign with anti-Islam slogans. Mr. Singh was seen responding to her with two words: love and courage. “We don’t want hatred to ruin a positive event. So let’s show people how to treat someone with love: We welcome you. We love you. We support you.”
