TORONTO: The Canadian Deputy High Commissioner was today summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs with regard to the raising of separatist slogans on ‘Khalistan’ at an event which was being personally addressed by the Prime Minister of Canada.

The Government of India’s deep concern and strong protest was conveyed at such disturbing actions being allowed to continue unchecked at the event. This illustrates once again the political space that has been given in Canada to separatism, extremism and violence.

Their continued expressions not only impact India-Canada relations but also encourage a climate of violence and criminality in Canada to the detriment of its own citizens.

LONDON: Overseas Friends of BJP UK (UP Chapter) orchestrated a magnificent “Run for Modi” event on Sunday, in the vibrant city of London.

Despite being tagged as a “Run for Modi,” the event took the form of a leisurely walk, symbolising solidarity and support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s re-election campaign. The Indian community in the UK showcased unwavering support for the BJP and Prime Minister Modi, turning the event into a resounding success, according to a release by the organising committee.

Despite the drizzling weather, the event witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with more than 500 enthusiastic participants joining in the walk. The scenic route commenced from Westminster Pier, traversing through the heart of London and culminating at the iconic Tower Bridge. Participants, adorned in vibrant hues, radiated positivity and fervour as they marched in unison, echoing their endorsement for Prime Minister Modi, the release added.

The highlight of the event was a captivating flash mob that unfolded against the backdrop of the majestic London Bridge, captivating bystanders and participants alike. The vibrant and energetic display encapsulated the spirit of unity and camaraderie among the Indian community in the UK, underscoring their unwavering support for the BJP and PM Modi, it also said.

Speaking about the event, Anand Arya (Vice President of OFBJP UK) expressed profound gratitude towards the Indian community for their overwhelming participation and fervent support. Suresh Mangalgiri (GS OFBJP UK) remarked, “The ‘Run for Modi’ event exemplifies the deep-rooted admiration and allegiance of the Indian community towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP.

“Despite the adverse weather conditions, the enthusiasm and spirit displayed by the participants were truly commendable,” said Darshan Grewal, Vice President of OFBJP UK, the release added.

The event garnered widespread attention and acclaim across various media platforms, further amplifying the message of unity and solidarity among the Indian community in the UK. The resounding success of the “Run for Modi” event serves as a testament to the unwavering support and fervour of the Indian community towards Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a prosperous and progressive India.

LONDON: Social service is down. Health service is down. Security is down. That’s the London assessment by Tarun Ghulati, the Indian-origin candidate in the race to challenge Pak-origin Sadiq Khan from winning a third term as Mayor of London. The polls are scheduled for May 2.

The 63-year-old, standing as an Independent candidate among 13 contestants, wants to bring the smile and mojo back for London.

“The current incumbent, Sadiq Khan, has brought London to a standstill. Crime has never been worse. It’s the most congested city in the world, the slowest city in the world, and you’ll be surprised. 21 teenagers lost their lives last year and over 1,000 murders under his watch over the last eight years. And you know there’s a need for a levelling up agenda,” Mr Ghulati told NDTV in an exclusive interview, slamming his opponent, who has been London Mayor since 2016.

Safety on the streets of the city is among his major priorities, with visible community policing and more officers.

“I come as a voice for the people. I am an independent candidate for mayor. I was mugged on my own high street, so that’s how bad crime is,” he said.

Asked about how he plans to win, pat came the reply: “I will win this election if everybody comes out to vote”. Mr Ghulati, who has a shadow cabinet in place, underlined that his family has been involved in public service over the last three centuries, adding he has been doing the same for 35-odd years.

“I’m going to bring in advisers from different communities so that they have all the answers. Because I’ve been going around the boroughs and I get to see new problems, different areas, different communities. I’ll bring in those advisors which I’ve already formed a list of. They will again come in. Then I’m going to tackle crime with a fervour never seen before,” he said elaborating his plans for London.

“We have got to make sure we bring the mojo back for London and the smile is back on the face of everyone. So I’m going to tackle like a good seasoned CEO. I have a dashboard. I’m going to look at it in a holistic basis,” he said.

The businessman, who has been on the board of various companies, said his multicultural experience will prove to be an advantage for him.

“It’s a great advantage, but none of the other candidates have that advantage. They make gaps. They don’t understand cultural advances. I’ve lived across continents. I’ve lived in India where people thrive in harmony and live together. I’ve lived all over the world. That gives me a strength. It gives me knowledge. It gives me a know how, and it gives me the people to people interaction because that moment of truth is lost when you can’t interact with people. The current politicians in the fray lack that,” said the businessman, who also speaks many languages, adding that he will create funds and will not be limited by the 21 billion sterling budget.

“I’ve been a banker, a chairman. I’ve sat on several boards. I advise a lot of entities, including dealing with law enforcement. So I’m a strategic advisor to the global cyber life. So none of these people would talk of policing, understand policing like I do. So, as a chairman, I will bring in money. They make excuses to the people. The government is not giving us money. I want to. I view London as a global bank with different cultures and entities and communities. Come here and they thrive. This is one of the greatest financial centres in the world. And that’s where I come from. I have the most experience of any one of them. They haven’t seen budgets like this, most of them none of the independents, none of the political candidates. They’re just playing with the sentiments of people,” he said.

Asked if he has drawn from his Delhi experience to bring about changes here, he said: “I’ve taken a leaf out of Delhi’s books, certainly, and India, where I grew up for the first 35 years, which has taught me to take all the religions and all cultures and all genders along.”

The winning mayoral candidate will be responsible for all local issues affecting Londoners, from transport and policing to housing and the environment.

 “I’m a person of Indian origin. I take a lot of pride in that all over the world. But I am a man of the world, having lived all over the world. So I’m a proud Londoner batting for London and I’ll be the next mayor of London for the Londoners,” said the businessman.