Justin Trudeau on Monday announced his resignation as Prime Minister of Canada and Leader of the ruling Liberal Party ahead of the general election being held in Canada this year. Speaking about his decision, he stated it was for the benefit of the Canadian people.
Canada has long held a significant place among India’s allies. However, this dynamic has become strained since Trudeau appointed members of the banned Khalistan organization to his cabinet. The assassination of Khalistan organization leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023 further dampened the relationship between the two countries, as it prompted Trudeau to impose various restrictions on visas for Indian students. This decision led to backlash within his own party, and over 20 members of the Liberal Party publicly called for his resignation.
Following his resignation, Trudeau has urged the Governor General to adjourn Parliament until March 24 while a new Liberal Party leader is chosen. Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds who will become the next Prime Minister of Canada. Of the eight candidates vying for the position, two are of Indian origin. There are reports that Canada’s Transport Minister Anita Anand, is one of the frontrunners in the race to succeed Trudeau.
Who is Anita Anand?
Anita Anand, originally from Tamil Nadu, is among the top five contenders to become the next Prime Minister of Canada following the resignation of Justin Trudeau. 57-year-old Anand who is now serving as the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade also held the position of Defence Minister previously. Anand has been one of the key figures in the Liberal Party ever since she entered politics in 2019, representing Oakville, a suburb of Toronto.
Anita Anand holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Queen’s University, a Law degree from Oxford University, a Law degree from Dalhousie University, and a Master of Laws from the University of Toronto.
Anita Anand’s Family
Anita Anand was born in Kentville, Nova Scotia. Her mother, Saroj D. Ram, and father, S.V. Anand, are both doctors. She has two sisters, Geeta and Sonia Anand.Anita Anand has made many important contributions to her political career. She was praised for her efforts to secure vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic while serving as Minister of Public Services and Procurement. She became Canada’s Minister of Defence in 2021. She then took on key responsibilities, including supporting Ukraine during the war with Russia and resolving issues with Canadian Armed Forces personnel.
Even after being moved to the Treasury Board in a controversial cabinet shuffle, Anand is one of the top leaders in the Cabinet. She was appointed the Transport Minister in December.
