Canada’s first Indian-origin foreign minister Anita Anand recently spoke with her Indian counterpart S Jaishankar over the telephone and called the discussion productive towards strengthening Canada-India ties. This led to an internal power play in Canada with the World Sikh Organization of Canada slamming Anand and the Hindu Canadian Foundation criticizing WSF for disparaging Anand. The World Sikh Organization said it was “deeply disappointed” by Anita Anand’s remarks that the conversation was productive. WSO questioned the silence of the minister over the “targeting of the Sikh community in Canada”.The Hindu Canadian Foundation defended the Hindu minister and called out the Sikh organization for bullying her. The HCF said WSO does not represent the entire Sikh community and operates with their own political and social agendas.“WSO is bullying @AnitaAnandMP for merely trying to improve relations with India—an economic powerhouse in Asia. Strengthening diplomatic ties with India has the potential to benefit all Canadians by facilitating trade and fostering economic growth, particularly at a time when Canada faces external geopolitical pressures,” the HCF said. “As Prime Minister @MarkJCarney has emphasized, building a stronger Canada requires unity and determination. His leadership reflects a commitment to advancing the country’s interests, and his vision calls for parliamentary support to ensure national progress—an idea that resonates broadly across political lines,” it said. “Regardless of party affiliation, elected officials must remain accountable to Canadians, prioritizing the nation’s well-being over external influences or interests that do not align with the broader goals of the country,” the HCF said. “Thank you Minister @DrSJaishankar for the productive discussion today on strengthening Canada–India ties, deepening our economic cooperation, and advancing shared priorities. I look forward to continuing our work together,” Anand posted after her talks with Jaishankar.“Appreciate the telecon with FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada. Discussed the prospects of India-Canada ties. Wished her a very successful tenure,” Jaishankar wrote on X.
