Controversy Surrounds MP Chandra Arya's Disqualification

Chandra Arya, an Indian-origin Canadian MP, has been barred from the Liberal Party leadership contest and his nomination for Ottawa Nepean. The decision follows concerns about his alleged ties to the Indian government, amid strained Canada-India relations. Arya denies these allegations, attributing his exclusion to his anti-Khalistani stance.

In a surprising political maneuver, Canada's Liberal Party has pulled the plug on Indian-origin MP Chandra Arya's leadership ambitions and his bid for nomination in Ottawa Nepean. This decision follows concerns raised about Arya's alleged connections with the Indian government, a claim Arya firmly refutes.

The Globe and Mail reports a source with top-secret clearance indicated Arya had not disclosed his visit to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi last August, even as relations between the two countries remain tense. Despite the allegations highlighted by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, the decision to exclude Arya was strictly a party initiative.

Arya, who faces accusations of foreign influence due to his alleged close ties to India's High Commission in Ottawa, maintains his innocence. He believes his removal stems from his vocal criticism of the Khalistani movement in Canada. As the general election approaches on April 28, tensions linger, exacerbated by recent diplomatic expulsions between Canada and India.

(With inputs from agencies.)