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Indian-origin Rights Commissioner in Canada resigns amid anti-Semitism controversy
In his resignation post, Dattani, who had converted to Islam in 2001 and adopted the name Mujahid, explained his decision to return to his birth name, Birju Dattani, in 2017 while maintaining Mujahid as part of his identity.
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Birju Dattani / Image- LinkedIn
The newly appointed Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, Birju Dattani, has resigned following allegations of anti-Semitism linked to his past activities.
The day before he was supposed to start his new job, Dattani announced his resignation on LinkedIn. The controversy emerged after the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) raised concerns about Dattani's previous use of the name "Mujahid Dattani" in various online activities and public speaking events. This name was not disclosed in the initial background check conducted by the Privy Council Office, leading to a fact-finding investigation ordered by Justice Minister Arif Virani.
The investigation, which was headed by Filion Wakely Angeletti, did not find any indication that Dattani had or communicated anti-Semitic views, according to a report that was submitted on July 31, 2024. However, it highlighted concerns about his lack of transparency during the vetting process.
"The findings speak for themselves," Minister Virani stated. "I received Mr. Dattani's submissions in response to the report on August 1, 2024. I have accepted his decision to step down as Chief Commissioner. Maintaining the confidence of all Canadians in the Canadian Human Rights Commission remains my top priority."
In his resignation post, Dattani, who had converted to Islam in 2001 and adopted the name Mujahid, explained his decision to return to his birth name, Birju Dattani, in 2017 while maintaining Mujahid as part of his identity. He expressed his continued belief in the Commission's mandate and its critical role in Canadian democracy.
CIJA welcomed Dattani's resignation, citing the loss of confidence within the Jewish community. "It was the right thing to do," said CIJA Vice President Richard Marceau, pointing to the rising levels of anti-Semitism in Canada as a significant concern.
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