Sukh Dhaliwal: Engineer, Immigrant, MP, Changemaker
From engineering blueprints to policy briefs, Sukh Dhaliwal’s journey from Sujapur, Punjab to the House of Commons of Canada reflects a deep-rooted commitment to community, public service, and civic engagement. As the long-standing Member of Parliament for Surrey—Newton, Dhaliwal has emerged as a determined advocate for immigrant communities, small businesses, and democratic values. His career—spanning business, municipal involvement, and federal politics—has been shaped by service, family, and an unrelenting drive to represent the underrepresented.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 1, 1960, in the village of Sujapur in Punjab, India, Sukhminder “Sukh” Dhaliwal grew up in a Sikh family grounded in tradition and resilience. In 1999, he immigrated to Canada with aspirations of building a better life. Within three years, he became a Canadian citizen and began contributing actively to Surrey’s civic and business life.
Before politics, Dhaliwal co-founded a successful land surveying business and worked as a professional engineer and small business owner. He was recognized as a Fellow of Engineers Canada, showcasing his technical credentials and professional achievements. His grassroots involvement included serving on the Board of Directors for SEEDS (Self Employment and Entrepreneur Development Society), participating in the City of Surrey Parks and Community Services Committee, and supporting the Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Emergency Capital Campaign.
Dhaliwal’s first foray into electoral politics came during the 1999 municipal elections, where he attempted to win a seat on Surrey City Council. Though unsuccessful, his campaign revealed his strong grassroots presence—he recruited over 2,600 new members to the Surrey Electors Team, over half of the party’s membership at the time.
Career Journey
Sukh Dhaliwal’s formal entry into federal politics began in 2004 when he ran as the Liberal candidate for Newton–North Delta. Though narrowly defeated, he returned in 2006 and secured the seat, beginning his first term as a Member of Parliament. Re-elected in 2008, he served until 2011 before returning to politics in 2015 in the newly created riding of Surrey–Newton, which he has successfully held through the 2019 and 2021 elections.
In Parliament, Dhaliwal has built a reputation as a tireless constituency representative. His office is known as one of the busiest in Canada—often the first point of contact for thousands of residents navigating immigration issues, federal benefits, and more.
On the national stage, Dhaliwal has held important committee assignments, including International Trade; Transportation, Infrastructure and Communities; and Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics. He also chaired the Special Committee on Afghanistan and currently sits on the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration. Previously, he served as Chair of the Northern and Western Liberal Caucus and as a critic for the Asia Pacific Gateway and Western Economic Diversification.
Outside Parliament, he has been a consistent presence in Surrey’s civic life, attending community events and supporting initiatives across cultural, educational, and health sectors.
Key Achievements & Public Perception
One of Dhaliwal’s most widely recognized achievements is his role in the successful campaign to establish Sikh Heritage Month in Canada. His efforts led to the national acknowledgment of Sikh Canadians’ vast contributions to Canada’s social, political, economic, and cultural fabric. The recognition also emphasizes the importance of Punjabi language, Gurmukhi script, and Sikh traditions in Canada’s multicultural identity.
In 2024, he introduced Motion M-112 in Parliament—calling for stronger action against foreign interference in Canadian democracy. The motion urged a coordinated governmental response to threats of manipulation by foreign actors, aiming to safeguard national sovereignty and election integrity. The motion received unanimous support in the House of Commons on May 8, 2024, signaling Dhaliwal’s influence in shaping bipartisan policy.
Publicly, Dhaliwal is often seen as accessible, pragmatic, and responsive. His long-standing relationships within Surrey’s diverse communities have helped him maintain a strong local base, even through political storms and shifting federal trends.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his accomplishments, Dhaliwal’s political career has not been without controversy. In 2008, he faced criticism for writing a letter on official House of Commons letterhead in support of a convicted drug trafficker—an action seen as a lapse in judgment.
In 2013, Dhaliwal withdrew from a provincial candidacy after being charged with six counts of tax evasion. He later pleaded guilty to three of those charges and was fined $3,000. The incident prompted a temporary retreat from political life, but Dhaliwal returned to win a federal seat in 2015, suggesting sustained voter trust in his leadership.
In 2024, he came under scrutiny for sponsoring a petition seeking a new inquiry into the Air India bombing, which promoted an alternative theory that contradicted findings of two Canadian public inquiries. While Dhaliwal stated that he was merely forwarding a public viewpoint, his involvement stirred backlash from various quarters.
Current Role & Future Outlook
Sukh Dhaliwal currently serves as the Liberal Member of Parliament for Surrey—Newton, a position he has held continuously since 2015. His focus areas include immigration, democratic integrity, and support for small businesses. He continues to be active in legislative affairs while maintaining a strong constituency presence—an approach that has helped him build credibility across partisan and community lines.
His recent endorsement of economist Mark Carney for leadership of the Liberal Party suggests continued political engagement and influence within the party’s future direction.
As Canada grapples with evolving global dynamics and domestic challenges, Dhaliwal’s legislative experience, immigrant background, and strong community ties position him as a steady voice on complex issues—from foreign policy to multicultural integration.
Conclusion
Sukh Dhaliwal’s story is one of persistence, reinvention, and deep civic commitment. From navigating his own immigrant journey to championing the rights of newcomers and advocating for democratic protections, Dhaliwal embodies the promise of Canadian public life—imperfect but evolving, challenged but resilient.
While his career has seen moments of controversy, it has also been marked by major legislative wins, grassroots impact, and unwavering advocacy. As he continues to represent one of Canada’s most dynamic and diverse ridings, Dhaliwal remains a figure to watch—balancing local priorities with a national voice in Canada’s Parliament.
