Indian-Origin Candidates in Canadian Parliament See Landmark Victories Across Provinces

Canadian Parliament: In a dramatic twist following Canada’s recent federal elections, the political narrative took a surprising turn as New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh bowed out after a decisive loss in Burnaby Central. Yet, amid this setback, a powerful and promising shift unfolded—Indian-origin candidates in Canadian Parliament emerged stronger than ever before, claiming a record-breaking 24 seats, up from 21 in the 2021 polls.

Of the approximately 65 Indian-origin candidates who threw their hats into the political ring, nearly 40% now sit in Canada’s new Parliament—an undeniable testament to the growing clout and civic engagement of the Indo-Canadian community. Most of these winners share a common heritage: roots in Punjab, India’s heartland of diaspora and democracy.

Canadian Parliament: A Wave of Victories Across Provinces

Among the standout winners is Anita Anand, the Innovation, Science and Industry Minister, who successfully retained her Oakville East seat. Anand is widely expected to be a key pillar in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Cabinet, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in public service.

Bardish Chagger, a Liberal MP from Waterloo since 2015, not only held onto her seat but continued to make history as the first woman to represent her constituency. Her journey from a Punjabi household to Parliament Hill continues to inspire.

In British Columbia, seasoned politician Sukh Dhaliwal clinched his sixth parliamentary term representing Surrey–Newton. His grassroots campaign and accessibility—he famously uses a single phone number for all constituents—helped him edge out well-known Conservative broadcaster Harjit Singh Gill.

Another B.C. incumbent, Randeep Sarai (Surrey Centre), defended his seat with ease. Sarai, a lawyer with deep roots in Vancouver’s South Asian community, has built a reputation for effective advocacy and business-friendly policies.

Parm Bains (Steveston–Richmond East) returned to Parliament for his second term. A former media educator of Jat Sikh heritage, Bains continues to resonate with the Punjabi diaspora and the broader electorate alike.

A particularly moving story comes from Gurbux Saini, the newly elected Liberal MP from Fleetwood–Port Kells. Migrating from Punjab in 1970 with just $8 in his pocket, Saini worked as a lumber piler before becoming a city councillor. Now, at age 69, he brings lived experience and resilience to Ottawa.

Youth, Experience, and Determination

One of the youngest voices in the House is Sukhman Singh Gill, a 25-year-old Conservative from Abbotsford–South Langley. A farmer’s son from Moga’s Bukanwala village, his grassroots campaign stunned political observers when he defeated Independent veteran Mike De Jong.

In Alberta, the Indian-origin influence surged. Jasraj Singh Hallan (Calgary East) and Dalwinder Gill (Calgary McKnight) ran high-impact campaigns. While Hallan, an established Conservative voice, secured re-election, Gill’s aggressive digital strategy helped him unseat Liberal George Chahal.

Amanpreet Singh Gill (Calgary Skyview), a businessman and gurdwara manager, overcame controversies to deliver a strong Conservative victory. Similarly, Tim Uppal (Edmonton Mill Woods), a veteran MP since 2008, retained his seat, further cementing his long-standing leadership in Canadian parliament.

Quebec’s Anju Dhillon, the first South Asian woman elected from the province, also held her Liberal seat. With her legal background and commitment to gender equality, Dhillon remains a vital voice in federal policy on women’s rights.

Ontario: The Heart of Indian-Origin Representation in Canadian Parliament

Ontario continues to be a stronghold for Indo-Canadian voices. Ruby Sahota (Brampton North), former Minister of Democratic Institutions, held her ground in a closely fought contest. Iqwinder Gaheer (Mississauga–Malton), Harvard-educated and raised near Jalandhar, held onto his seat with sheer perseverance and policy depth.

In Brampton East, Maninder Sidhu returns to Parliament, reinforcing his commitment to international development and entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, Sonia Sidhu (Brampton South), known for her health advocacy and women’s rights work, secured another term, reaffirming her constituents’ trust in her experience and compassion.

A dramatic upset came in Brampton West, where Amarjeet Gill (Conservative) defeated cabinet minister Kamal Khera, marking a significant shift in the region’s political dynamics. In Brampton Centre, Amandeep Sohi outpaced Taran Chahal in a keenly watched contest.

Closely Contested and Historic Wins

In Edmonton West, Jagsharan Singh Mahal clinched a stunning win over Edmonton’s mayor, Amarjeet Sohi. In Oxford, Arpan Khanna, a young Conservative with ancestral roots in Raikot, retained his seat with a bold policy platform. Harb Gill, a former Windsor police officer, ousted NDP veteran Brian Masse, adding a unique voice from law enforcement to the Conservative bench.

Shuvaloy Majumdar, representing Calgary Heritage, retained his seat, preserving a legacy previously held by former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. With roots in West Bengal and a background in consulting, Majumdar symbolizes the evolving face of Canadian conservatism.

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