MP Chandra Arya has repeatedly made headlines for his divisive rhetoric, unsubstantiated allegations, and outright dismissal of Sikh genocide recognition. His recent decision to block a motion in Canada’s Parliament recognizing the 1984 Sikh Genocide is not just a betrayal of the Sikh community but a threat to Canada’s democratic principles and multicultural harmony. By casting Sikh activism as a “Khalistani-driven narrative” and labeling the pursuit of justice as an “anti-Hindu agenda,” Arya has proven himself unfit to serve as a representative of Canadian values. It’s time to confront the damage he has caused and demand accountability from the Liberal Party. 

Arya’s pride in being the sole MP to deny recognition of the 1984 Sikh Genocide speaks volumes about his priorities. His actions align more closely with the Indian government’s denialist stance than with Canada’s commitment to justice and human rights. The 1984 Sikh Genocide was not an isolated incident of communal violence. It was a state-sponsored campaign of targeted extermination, leaving thousands of Sikhs dead, countless women raped, and entire families shattered. This isn’t just the conclusion of international human rights organizations but also India’s own Nanavati Commission. Yet Arya, in a disturbing display of denialism, continues to refer to these atrocities as “riots,” echoing the Indian state’s propaganda to absolve itself of culpability. 

For Arya to stand alone in Parliament and block a motion for genocide recognition is an affront to the survivors of 1984 and their families. His claim that such recognition would sow division between Sikh and Hindu communities is disingenuous. It is not the acknowledgment of truth that creates division but the refusal to confront it. By dismissing the genocide and labeling calls for justice as divisive, Arya has effectively silenced the voices of victims and survivors while amplifying harmful Indian state narratives. 

This is far from the first time Arya has weaponized his platform to advance divisive rhetoric. He has repeatedly sought to delegitimize Sikh activism in Canada, framing it as a threat rather than a pursuit of justice. In his latest statement, Arya went so far as to claim he was “threatened” in Parliament for blocking the genocide motion. These allegations, presented without evidence, serve only to deflect attention from his own harmful actions. They paint him as a victim while sidestepping the harm he has caused to the Sikh community and Canada’s multicultural fabric. 

Arya has also characterized Sikh calls for accountability as part of a “Khalistani-driven agenda,” a baseless and deeply damaging assertion. By conflating justice with separatism, he delegitimizes the legitimate grievances of a community that has suffered decades of systemic violence and discrimination. Arya’s rhetoric mirrors that of the Indian state, which has long sought to discredit Sikh activism by branding it as extremist. In doing so, he risks importing India’s communal tensions into Canada, undermining the harmony that has long defined the Sikh and Hindu communities in this country. 

Chandra Arya’s actions raise serious questions about his loyalties and priorities. Rather than representing the interests of his Canadian constituents, Arya has repeatedly acted as a mouthpiece for the Indian state. His language and narratives align disturbingly well with the talking points of the Indian government, which has worked tirelessly to suppress Sikh activism and erase the truth about the 1984 genocide. 

Take, for instance, Arya’s repeated calls for Hindu-Canadians to pressure MPs into opposing genocide recognition. This is not the behavior of a leader committed to Canadian values; it is a tactic lifted directly from India’s playbook of communal politics. By encouraging divisive lobbying efforts, Arya risks fracturing Canada’s multicultural society and undermining its democratic institutions. 

Moreover, Arya’s claim that recognizing the 1984 genocide is part of an “anti-Hindu agenda” is not only false but inflammatory. It weaponizes the trauma of 1984 to serve a political narrative that seeks to absolve the Indian state of responsibility. Arya’s statements are not just harmful to Sikhs—they are an insult to all Canadians who value truth, justice, and accountability. 

Arya’s actions don’t just harm Canada domestically; they also undermine its reputation on the global stage. Canada has long been a leader in recognizing and addressing historical injustices. From acknowledging the Armenian Genocide to confronting its own history of residential schools, Canada has shown a commitment to truth and reconciliation. By blocking the recognition of the 1984 Sikh Genocide, Arya undermines this legacy and sends a dangerous message: that state-sponsored violence can be minimized and its victims silenced. 

Arya’s rhetoric also threatens Canada’s ability to address foreign interference. His dismissal of inquiries into Indian state activities in Canada as “anti-Hindu” narratives reflects a deliberate attempt to shield India from scrutiny. This is particularly concerning given the recent allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh leader in Canada. Arya’s actions serve to deflect attention from these allegations and protect the interests of a foreign government at the expense of Canada’s sovereignty. 

Chandra Arya’s behavior is not just a betrayal of the Sikh community; it is a betrayal of all Canadians who value justice, equity, and inclusivity. His refusal to recognize the 1984 genocide, his alignment with Indian state narratives, and his divisive rhetoric make him unfit to serve as a Member of Parliament. The Liberal Party must act decisively. By allowing Arya to remain in his position, the party risks alienating not just the Sikh community but all Canadians who expect their representatives to uphold the values of truth and justice. 

The Liberal Party must demand Arya’s resignation. This is not a matter of political expediency; it is a matter of principle. Canada cannot afford to have elected officials who prioritize foreign narratives over the interests of their constituents. Arya’s actions have shown that he does not represent the values of his party or his country. It’s time for him to step down. 

The recognition of the 1984 Sikh Genocide is not a “Khalistani-driven narrative.” It is a moral imperative. Canada has an opportunity to lead by example, to stand for truth and justice, and to ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are heard. Arya’s divisive actions should not be allowed to derail this pursuit. 

Chandra Arya’s actions and rhetoric are a stain on Canada’s Parliament. They perpetuate harmful stereotypes, deepen divisions, and prioritize foreign interests over Canadian values. It’s time for the Liberal Party to act. Arya must resign, and Canada must reaffirm its commitment to justice, truth, and inclusivity. The 1984 Sikh Genocide deserves recognition—not dismissal, not denial, and certainly not obstruction.