Indian-origin rights commissioner in Canada quits over Mujahid Dattani row

A newly appointed Indian-origin commissioner for human rights in Canada resigned even before assuming office over allegations of anti-Semitism against him. Birju Dattani, who took leave a day before his official joining, announced his resignation on LinkedIn amid the complaints. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) noted that Dattani used the name "Mujahid Dattani" for some online activities and at speaking events. This name was not included in the original background check by the Privy Council Office.

"I have agreed to resign as Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, effective today, August 12, 2024. I remain a steadfast believer in the Commission’s work, mandate, and its importance to our democracy," wrote Dattani on LinkedIn.

In his letter to Virani, Dattani explained his name change journey and his commitment to the role.

DATTANI SAYS HE CONVERTED TO ISLAM, CHANGED NAME

He stated he was raised Hindu but became Muslim in 2001, adopting the name Mujahid, and in 2017 chose to go by his given name, Birju Dattani, while Mujahid remains part of his identity.

The report acknowledged that his past advocacy and criticism of Israel could have been discussed during the application process if he had been more forthcoming.

"Mr. Dattani's efforts to downplay the critical nature of his work were concerning and, certainly, his failure to directly disclose this work deprived the Government of the opportunity to have a discussion with Mr. Dattani about what, if any, impact his scholarship and perspective would or could have if he were appointed to the role of Chief Commissioner," the report stated.

CIJA had called out past comments and actions of the commissioner, labelling them antisemitic.

This prompted a fact-finding investigation by Justice Minister Arif Virani, conducted by Filion Wakely Angeletti LLP, with a report submitted on July 31.

"The findings speak for themselves," said Virani. "I received his 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," CBC news reported as saying.

NO EVIDENCE OF ANTI-SEMITIC BELIEFS OF 'MUJAHID DATTANI'

The investigation revealed that Birju Dattani, commissioner, had used another name, "Mujahid Dattani", in online activities, which was not covered by the initial background check.

The report stated he omitted this name and periods of unemployment from his background check forms.

"The Jewish community had lost confidence in him to occupy that position, which is so important at this period where we're seeing sky-high levels of antisemitism. It was the right thing to do," CIJA Vice-President Richard Marceau was quoted as saying by CBC news.

The report, however, found no evidence of antisemitic beliefs.

"Based on his evidence, we cannot find that he harboured or harbours any beliefs that would be characterised as anti-Semitic or that he has demonstrated any biases towards Jews or Israelis," the report stated.

The interim commissioner, Charlotte-Anne Malischewski, will continue in the role while the search for a new commissioner begins, reported CBC news.