Echoing robust voice in Canadian House of Commons, Indian-origin Jagmeet Singh creates history

Toronto, March 20: India has marked it presence not only in sports, culture and tourism but also at every nook and corner emancipating democracy at its best. Echoing Indian voice in the international parliament, Indian-origin Jagmeet Singh created history in Canada when he made his debut in the House of Commons as the first non-white leader of a major opposition party in the country. Cheered by all, the arrival of the new turbaned member was coincided with the induction of a senior woman member into Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet.

 

Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the New Democratic Party, was elected in federal by-elections held on February 25. The leader placed his hand over his heart as he walked into the House of Commons, the lower of house of Parliament, before the daily question period.

As an elected lawmaker, Jagmeet Singh talked about last week's terrorist attack on two mosques in New Zealand. Owing condolence he said, "I want to begin by expressing our solidarity with the people of New Zealand who are mourning the attack on Muslim brothers and sisters in Christchurch." He then launched his first question about housing in Burnaby-South.

Prime Minister Trudeau responded by congratulating Singh for his entry into the Commons, before touting the government's record on fighting poverty. Singh's remarks echoed the mood of the House on a crucial day when the Prime Minister was stressed by the resignations of his two key cabinet colleagues.

Speculations are rife that the last budget of the Trudeau government with an eye on the general elections in October is expected to have several attractions for the middle class.