Vancouver, Nov 4 (IANS) – Former British Columbia Premier Ujjal Dosanjh has delivered a scathing critique of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, accusing him of failing to curb rising extremism and prioritizing political gains over national unity. Dosanjh, a prominent Sikh Canadian leader and former Health Minister, expressed his disappointment, labeling Trudeau as "sociologically and politically an idiot" in an interview with Canada’s National Post.
Dosanjh claimed that Trudeau’s actions are driven by the pursuit of a "well-orchestrated Sikh vote" to secure support in close elections. "Trudeau, sociologically and politically, is an idiot, and you can actually quote me. I really don't care. Because he's an imbecile in terms of understanding how you build nations, how you build countries, " Dosanjh remarked. His comments came shortly after a recent attack on Hindu worshippers at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, allegedly involving extremist elements.
Attributing much of the blame to Trudeau, Dosanjh argued that the Prime Minister has enabled extremist movements to flourish. "He’s never really understood that the vast majority of Sikhs are quite secular in their outlook, despite the fact that they go to the temple, " Dosanjh said. "Through intimidation, extremists control many of the gurdwaras in Canada. It’s Trudeau’s fault that Canadians now equate certain extremists with Sikhs, as if all Sikhs support them."
Dosanjh, who moved to Canada from the UK in 1968 and has settled in Vancouver, noted that the silent majority of Sikhs do not align with extreme ideologies. "They just don’t speak out because they’re afraid of violence and repercussions, " he explained, estimating that "less than five percent" of Canada’s nearly 800, 000 Sikhs support separatist agendas.
A staunch critic of extremism, Dosanjh has faced threats in the past, especially following the 1985 Air India Kanishka bombing. Reflecting on his history of outspoken criticism, Dosanjh disclosed that he once debated Trudeau on issues of identity and extremism. "Justin and I had a long debate in the lobby of the Commons when I was with him as an MP. I argued that an emphasis on exclusive identities could deter cultural and social integration. You need shared values."
Dosanjh expressed concerns over Trudeau’s approach to multiculturalism, suggesting it may be undermining Canadian unity. Trudeau’s well-known stance that “You come here, you can be who you are” has sparked controversy among those who advocate for a more integrated approach to Canadian identity.
Dosanjh's remarks add to the growing concerns about extremism in Canada, following recent vandalism and violence targeting Hindu temples in places like Brampton, Windsor, and Mississauga. The recent attack on worshippers in Brampton has only intensified these concerns, prompting calls for stronger action from Canadian leaders.
Amid escalating tension between Canada and India, Dosanjh’s outspoken views highlight a critical internal debate over political strategy and social cohesion in Canada’s multicultural society.