The first turbaned Sikh RCMP cop who was deeply involved in the Air India bombing investigation has entered politics as a candidate for the BC NDP in the coming fall provincial election. Baltej Dhillon  will run in the Surrey-Serpentine River after being nominated and promises to take on tough challenges and make life better for people, according to a news release Sunday. Dhillon joined the RCMP in 1990. He made history as the first RCMP officer to be allowed to wear a turban as part of his uniform, paving the way for turban-wearing Sikhs to serve in our national police service as their fullest selves.

By DESIBUZZCanada Staff

SURREY — The first turbaned Sikh RCMP cop who was deeply involved in the Air India bombing investigation has entered politics as a candidate for the BC NDP in the coming fall provincial election.

Baltej Dhillon  will run in the Surrey-Serpentine River after being nominated and promises to take on tough challenges and make life better for people, according to a news release Sunday.

Dhillon joined the RCMP in 1990. He made history as the first RCMP officer to be allowed to wear a turban as part of his uniform, paving the way for turban-wearing Sikhs to serve in our national police service as their fullest selves. A resident of Surrey for 35 years, he volunteers as a youth counsellor, is active with many non-profits, and since 2019 has worked with BC's anti-gang agency: the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia.

"We need a government that will work to keep everyday people safe, through fighting organized crime, ending gang violence, and keeping young people away from crime so they can start their lives on the right track," said Dhillon. "That's what we have in the BC NDP. That is where my passion lies. I can't wait to take action on these issues, building on the BC NDP's track record on public safety, housing, healthcare, and affordability."

"Baltej will bring decades of experience, dedication and passion for community safety and the welfare of young people to our caucus. I am so glad he is on the team," said Premier David Eby. "British Columbians deserve safe and welcoming communities — and they can trust our BC NDP government to take action to keep them and their families secure."

Dhillon will join David Eby and 91 other exceptional BC NDP candidates in this October 2024 provincial election.