[Hindustan Times] Canada govt proposes to delay polls next year to avoid Diwali clash

The Canadian government has proposed to move the national elections scheduled for October 20 next year by a week to October 27 to accommodate Hindus and other faith communities celebrating Diwali on that day. This proposal is part of a package of reforms to the Elections Act, aimed at enhancing voter participation.

The Hindu community welcomed the proposed reform, but also sought more substantive measures to combat Hinduphobia. Kushagr Sharma, vice-president of the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC), highlighted the impact of scheduling conflicts on civic engagement, citing a decrease in voter turnout when municipal elections in Ontario last year clashed with Diwali.

The announcement was appreciated by the Canadian chapter of the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA). Its president, Rishabh Sarswat, expressed concerns about the risks to the Hindu community during the election period, especially around Diwali, and called for concrete steps to ensure their safety.

Hindu community leaders believe there is a concerted effort from the ruling Liberal Party to woo them for the national elections, as the community has largely shifted to the opposition Conservative Party due to perceived softness of the Government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau towards pro-Khalistani elements.

Source: Conversation with Bing
https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/firstever-dragon-ball-theme-park-announced-weeks-after-akira-toriyamas-death-101711199204207.html