Vancouver Indian Consulate officials held a jubilant 75th Republic Day celebrations at University of British Columbia’s Great Hall that brought out the cream of the crop (some referred to them as the Usual Suspects) of the local Indo-Canadian community. There were also officials from local higher learning institutions like Simon Fraser University and Camosun College (both sponsored the event) as well as a boat load of local politicians from all levels of government including a high number from Surrey like mayor Brenda Locke and provincial Ministers Harry Bains and Jagrup Brar. 

By R. Paul Dhillon – Editor DESIBUZZCanada

VANCOUVER – Vancouver Indian Consulate officials held a jubilant 75th Republic Day celebrations at University of British Columbia’s Great Hall that brought out the cream of the crop (some referred to them as the Usual Suspects) of the local Indo-Canadian community.

There were also officials from local higher learning institutions like Simon Fraser University and Camosun College (both sponsored the event) as well as a boat load of local politicians from all levels of government including a high number from Surrey like mayor Brenda Locke and provincial Ministers Harry Bains and Jagrup Brar. 

BC legislature speaker Raj Chauhan was also there and senior B.C. Minister Brenda Bailey officially represented the BC government. 

Outgoing Consul General Maneesh (he’s leaving the post in a few weeks) read out the official Indian government message on the momentous 75th Anniversary of the Republic and thanked many individuals and organizations for making his stay in BC and Canada an enjoyable part of his job. 

He thanked the RCMP for providing personal protection at a challenging time due to recent political events that created backlash against Indian officials working in Canada. He also thanked the Vancouver Police Department for their services and cooperation and personally honoured VPD Deputy Chief Steve Rai with a special plaque. 

A well attended event that was worth the trip to UBC on a dark and rainy Vancouver night!!!