Issuu

nts

ntal Care Plan) patie

nadian De Accepting CDCP( Ca

HARINDER DAIL

Dental Crow tal Implants

Den

Ceramic Crowns Bridges es Sem-Clear Brac Speed Braces Invisalign ry General Dentist Orthodontics Implants ning Cosmetic White es Treatment ac Br st Fa Providing

titioner

Honesty - Integrity - Trust Professional Services Provided • Estate Planning • Will Preparation • Legal Documents • Power of Attorney • Affidavits • Notarization • Real Estate Purchase or Sale of Property • Travel Documents

TATION FREE CONSUL

, Dr. R. Sidhu General Dental Prac

NOTARY CORPORATION

DDS

HARINDER DAIL

#108 – 7511 120 Street Delta BC

604 543 5060

Notary Public, M.A. (ALS) M.B.A. B.Sc

y 0th Street, Surre

#215 - 7110, 12

Ph: 604-503-3853 Fx:604-503-3854

www.theasianstar.com

VOL 26 - ISSUE 36

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

TEL: 604-591-5423

What does Trump's midterm loss mean for India-US ties With the US Democrats scoring a resounding midterm victory and taking control of both chambers of Congress, the Republican administration led by Donald Trump is set for a new level of scrutiny until the end of Trump's term. Trump is likely to face pushback on his controversial foreign policy, which saw the US alienate most of its allies and get entangled in yet another unpopular war in the Middle East. At the same time, the Trump administration has also taken a slew of less conspicuous but still highly controversial moves on the global stage, including a series of confrontations with India. The ties between New Delhi and Washington are still strained by a stalled trade agreement, restrictions on immigration, and disagreement over India buying Russian oil and weapons, despite the US granting an oil ban waiver in March 2026 and Trump waving

Carney's new budget aims to end homelessness Canada is embarking on a path to end homelessness in 10 years, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said as he presented the federal budget on Thursday. "We have 65,000 Canadians who suffer from homelessness," Champagne said at a news conference before the budget was tabled. "I think it's the right thing to do." The 2026 budget proposes $11.2 billion over the next four years and $17.8 billion "in future years" toward helping people move from homelessness to stable housing, build community mental health and addictions facilities and support homelessness prevention programs. Continued on Page 10...

some of the Russia sanctions in October. And while the new US Congress can choose to pressure Trump over issues such as tariffs and immigration, the president still wields significant authority on foreign policy. The immediate test for Trump's India policy is trade. India and the US have yet to formalize the interim framework discussed

by Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February, with the two nations still at odds over market access and other trade commitments. Shanthie Mariet D'Souza, founder of the Mantraya Institute of Strategic Studies, expects the new Congress to apply "increased scrutiny of protectionist measures" pushed by the Trump administration. Continued on Page 7...

WISHING YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES A

HAPPY DIWALI &

BANDI CHORRH DIWAS Best Wishes From Your Local MP

Hon. Randeep S Sarai

Russian hacker group claims to have posted Burnaby school district information on dark web

Surrey Centre

170-10362 King George Blvd Surrey, BC, V3T 2W5

A shadowy Russian ransomware group has posted screenshots on the dark web from what appears to be a database stolen from the Burnaby School District. The group — which calls itself Qilin — claims to offer downloads of information allegedly taken during a massive data breach school officials have said included medical information, detailed learning assessments, and personal information about both staff and students. Qilin is renowned as a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) provider that offers tools and infrastructure to hackers anywhere in the world in exchange for a percentage of proceeds demanded from victims. Continued on Page 10...

randeep.sarai@parl.gc.ca

604-589-2441

@surreysarai

@randeepssarai

/Randeep S. Sarai

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Happy

Diwali

& Bandi ChHor Diwas

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Toronto real estate CEO and 2 daughters shot, wife bludgeoned with hammer in ‘Violent’ home invasion A Canadian real estate CEO and his family are recovering after a violent attack at their Toronto home. According to The Toronto Sun, Mac Group CEO David Morton and his two daughters were shot, while his wife was viciously beaten during a terrifying break-in at the family’s $2.1 million property on Thursday, October 29.

Per the outlet, three masked men broke into the home through a rear door on Hyde Park Circle early Thursday morning, with Toronto Police calling it a “violent interaction.” “There was a demand made for valuables from within the home – whether or not they escaped with anything is uncertain,” Toronto Police Inspector Kristy Smith told The Sun. David, 75, his adult daughters, Maggie Zohil-Morton and Cristina Zohil-Morton, and his wife, Doriana ZohilMorton, were hospitalized following the attack. Authorities noted that two of the family members suffered “life-altering injuries,” while the other two were being treated for “non-life-threatening injuries.” One daughter was shot in the leg, while the other was shot under her arm. David was also shot in the leg, while Doriana, 64, who serves as president of the MAC Group, is believed to have suffered blunt-force injuries after being struck with a hammer. A source told the outlet that the family “tried to fight off” three men wearing hoodies and ski masks, adding that “that’s when they were shot.” The source also said all four family members were believed to have been “smashed on the head” with the blunt object. It is not currently known whether there was a motive for the attack or why the suspects targeted the Morton family. However, police said they were likely looking to rob wealthy families in the neighborhood, which Smith described as an “affluent area where people would have things that are sought after would be the motivation for this.” While official descriptions of the suspects have not been released, police noted that they fled the area in an SUV.

C.S.T. Consultants Inc.

BC Helps Parents Boost their Education Savings! Start saving for your child’s future education in a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) and receive up to $8,400 in government grants.1 Open a CST RESP now and you’ll start receiving the Canada Education Savings grant (CESG). The CESG can add up to $7,200 to your child’s RESP. When your child turns six, they can receive an additional $1,200 from the B.C. Government. SURJIT S. MADHOPURI Sales Representative C.S.T. Consultants Inc., Branch 789 Tel: 604.594.7200 / Cell: 604.377.4171 Email: surjit.madhopuri@cstresp.com http://www.cstresp.com/6117

1 The Canada Education Savings Grant matches 20% of the first $2,500 you contribute to your child’s RESP each year up to a lifetime maximum of $7,200. BC Training and Education Savings Grant (BCTESG) is a one-time $1,200 grant available to BC resident children born on or after January 1st, 2006. Children are eligible for the BCTESG on their sixth birthday. You have until the day before your child’s ninth birthday to apply for the BCTESG. Conditions apply. ™ The Canadian Scholarship Trust Plan is a registered trademark of the Canadian Scholarship Trust Foundation. The CST Plan is only sold by Prospectus. You can get copies of the prospectus from www.cst.org or by calling 1.877.333.RESP(7377). MH1100(2017-04)

Nithya Raman prevails over her former ally to lead Los Angeles At the Crenshaw High School voting location Tuesday, people waited in line for about an hour to cast their vote. Those who voted for Bass expressed confidence in the current mayor’s ability to lead Los Angeles during a second term. “Everybody needs a second chance,” Crenshaw native Irene Randall said, in reference to Bass’ handling of the Palisades Fire. “They’ve all done something underneath the covers where we cannot see, and hers just so happened to be a little open. I believe in second chances.” Those who voted for Raman emphasized the need for new leadership. Brandon Ramirez, 20, voted for Raman in his second ever election. “With everything going on with how Karen Bass has been running the city, I’d rather have someone else do it than her.” Ramirez believes that Republican spending on the Bass campaign was a sign Raman is the better option. In October, the Los Angeles Police Department union, which has endorsed Bass and spent millions to oppose Raman, donated $200,000 to the Republican Central Committee of LA County. That group later sent out antiRaman mailers, according to state campaign filings. “Being an LA native, a lot of our money doesn’t go [to] what it should be going to. [You] see apartments and housing get set up, but what’s the point of it if people can’t even afford it? And then, crime rates don’t decrease, rent gets higher, and stuff like that needs to change.” Ramirez said. Nestled in the Loews Hotel off Hollywood Boulevard, a DJ played upbeat tunes spanning from R&B to Latin music at the Bass watch party on Tuesday night. Bass’ various endorsers took to the stage ahead of her speech to praise her first term as mayor. Yvonne Wheeler, the executive vice president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, referred to Bass’ political experience and her being an L.A. native as an upside. “So who do you believe understands the importance of working people and organized labor?” Wheeler said. “This election was an opportunity to hold our leaders accountable, examine their records, and decide which visions best reflect our values and our priorities. Who has experience, leadership, and vision that reflects our priorities? So I think you understand why organized labor put all of our muscle and machine behind Karen Bass.” Two large projector screens showcased the other elections of the night. Cheers rang out whenever a Democratic victory was secured. Bass was introduced to the stage by her stepdaughter and stood among her family. “Four years ago, you gave me the honor of a lifetime to serve as the mayor of the city that raised me. The city my parents chose to build a life in, and

the city I have spent my entire life fighting for. We have taken on some of the most difficult challenges facing any major city,” Bass said in a 10-minute speech, recounting the wildfires, Trump’s National Guard deployment, and the ramping up of ICE activity that marked her first term. “I love Los Angeles. I believe in this city, and I will always fight for the city that we deserve,” Bass said. “I am proud to say Los Angeles is the best city in the United States of America.” A few miles away at Griffith Park, hundreds of Raman supporters gathered to celebrate the councilmember at a party that went on past midnight. A DJ spun nostalgic millennial hits and screens were tuned to local station KTLA for election updates. When Bass’ party was shown, the crowd booed. Abby Offenhauser, a first year law student at

UCLA, was one of the young people in attendance. “I would love to see more transparency in where LA residents’ tax dollars are going, and I would love to see police reform in the LAPD, if at all possible,” she said. Tara Singh, also a 21-year-old law student, said she had never been to an election party before — but that Raman stood out to her as a South Asian woman. “I think it’s so inspiring to watch someone like me stand up on a stage and move people towards issues that affect all of us. And I think she’s done a really beautiful job of threading the needle and resonating with every single type of person, so I’m excited. I’m cautiously optimistic for tonight.” The speaker lineup included union leaders, the two local politicians who have endorsed Raman, her younger brother and a tabletop dungeon master with one million Instagram followers. Raman closed out the program with a 30-minute speech shouting out the organizations and individuals who came together to help her campaign. “This city’s government has made solving problems look impossible for so long that I heard from people across this city who started to believe that it was impossible,” she said. “Hopelessness can be fatal for a city, but this campaign refused to accept that. You refused to accept that.” “How lucky are we to be in this fight together?” Raman asked the hundreds assembled before her. “Thank you, Los Angeles. I love you.”

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Man accused of killing 11-year-old Burnaby boy makes 1st court appearance Ph: 604-591-5423 Fax: 604-591-8615 editor@theasianstar.com Editor: Umendra Singh Marketing and Sales: Ravi Cheema 604-715-3847 Shamir Doshi 604-649-7827 Harminder Kaur 778-708-0481 Parminder Dhillon 604-902-2858 Pre-Press: Avee Waseer Production: Ozmo Media

www.theasianstar.com

Publication Mail Agreement No 428336012 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Circulation Dept.

# 202 - 8388, 128 St., Surrey, BC V3W 4G2 All advertising in The Asian Star is subject to the publishers’ approval and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publishers against claims arising from publication of any advertisement submitted by the advertiser.

One of two people charged in relation to the death of an 11-year-old Burnaby, B.C., boy appeared in a Vancouver courtroom for the first time on Thursday. Branko Bijelic, 51, is charged with second-degree murder and indignity to human remains in the death of Kai Pavlovic. He and 46-year-old Sarah Bijelic, who was also charged with manslaughter in the case, were both family members of the boy, according to police. Branko, who has yet to enter a plea, appeared by video link dressed in a red sweatshirt and glasses. "Kai was the light of our lives and we will miss the joy, creativity, and sense of adventure he brought with him wherever he went — and that is how we will remember him," the statement adds. He sat quietly during proceedings, which were put over until later this month. A family member from New Zealand, who identified herself as Kai's grandmother, was present in court gallery, but declined to speak with journalists. In a statement to CBC News, Kai's aunt Helen Kok said the family remains "absolutely devastated" by his death, and will "forever have a Kai shaped hole in our hearts." The Lower Mainland's Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) announced charges in the case on Nov. 2, more than a year after the boy was reported missing. According to police, Burnaby RCMP had received a request to check on the boy's wellbeing that day, and escalated the case to the Serious Crimes Unit when they were unable to locate him. The case was later escalated again to IHIT. The boy's remains were discovered at an undisclosed location earlier this year, according to IHIT. Family members have launched a fundraiser with the goal of transporting Kai's remains to Montenegro so he can be buried with his father, and for the creation of a memorial garden in New Zealand.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

From groceries to tax credits, how much is in the federal budget for your wallet From a grocery benefit expansion to rental assistance and payments for more low-wage workers, Thursday's federal budget includes a number of measures aimed at making life more affordable. But they were still eclipsed by a focus on investment. One of the main direct pocketbook measures is a top-up to the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit — a pre-existing program that gives quarterly payments to Canadians with low and modest incomes. The top-up will increase those payments by 50 per cent for the 2026-27 program year. Combined with previous increases, a single person could get up to $1,290. A couple with two children could get up to $2,570. The government says the program will give Canadians collectively $4.1 billion more in support to help pay for essentials. The plan also expands the Canada caregiver credit. Budget 2026 makes the tax credit refundable, helping caregivers who have incomes so low that they don't pay tax. The move would help extend the credit — which could give caregivers up to $1,260 back annually — to about 180,000 people who don't currently get it. For those saving for retirement, the government also plans to merge Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs). Right now, when Canadians turn 71 and can no longer contribute to their RRSPs, they have to convert that account into an RRIF and begin withdrawing from it. The "RRSP-for-life" plan would eliminate the need to switch — and would also allow a surviving partner of the RRSP holder to transfer those savings tax free. Other measures aimed at bringing down costs

were already announced. The government suspended the excise tax on fuel — which saves Canadians about 10 cents a litre on the cost of gasoline — in April, and later extended that to the end of January 2027. The tax will come back at a 50 per cent rate until the end of March 2027 and then return to its regular level. In all, the budget shows the government earmarked $5.3 billion on that relief at the pumps. Overall, the federal government's fiscal

plan pledges $22 billion for new spending on affordability measures. But aside from some relief on things like groceries and gas — measures that will support Canadians in the short term — economist Armine Yalnizyan says there's little in the budget for everyday people. "It's not like they're doing nothing," Yalnizyan said. "But the short answer is Canadians are going to need a lot of patience because this budget is not there to support them." The affordability measures that do exist are eclipsed by tax cuts and investments in infrastructure and other major projects. The previously announced productivity mega-deduction — which allows businesses to write off the total cost of many kinds of investments in things like equipment — accounts for $36 billion in the budget, compared to $22 billion in overall for affordability.

What does Trump's midterm loss mean for India-US ties Continued from Page 1... The US lawmakers could push for "stronger trade oversight and clearer standards for environmental and labor issues," she told DW. For India, whose largest export market is the US, this could offer some breathing room. She also emphasized that "the fundamental pillars of the India-US strategic partnership are expected to remain strong" and "the long-term goal of deepening economic ties is likely to continue." Immigration presents a different challenge. The administration's tightening of H-1B visa rules, including imposing a $100,000 (€88,761) payment for certain new petitions, has alarmed Indian professionals and tech companies that rely on the visa program to secure jobs in the US.

A Democratic majority could increase scrutiny on that issue as well, but would not automatically reverse measures introduced by Trump's executive action. Iyer believes that legal immigration itself is not a major priority for voters. Nevertheless, he sees the midterms' result as a message to Trump about his immigration policies. The immigration lawyer believes that new, steep fee for some H-1B applications will be challenged in court. While the executive branch of government can raise fees to reflect administrative costs and inflation, Iyer argued that charges of this magnitude could deter people from pursuing legal immigration. "Only Congress can pass such legislation."

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

McCallum Returns as Surrey’s New Council Begins Four-Year Term By Jasmine Kaur Kochhar: Surrey’s newly elected mayor and council have officially taken office and begun their four-year term with

his fifth term on November 2 alongside eight councillors who will serve through 2030. The council includes Harry Bains, Cheney

The incoming council combines returning municipal politicians with first-time councillors. Elford, Nagra and Bains were re-elected, while

commitments to freeze property taxes and pursue a new women’s and children’s hospital in Newton. Mayor Doug McCallum was sworn in for

Cloke, Doug Elford, Meera Gill, Suhana Gill, Laurie Guerra, Mandeep Nagra and Allison Patton. Nagra is also the city’s new deputy mayor.

Guerra and Patton had previously served on the council. Meera Gill, Suhana Gill and Cloke enter their first terms.

HAPPY

DIWALI

In a city news release, Mayor McCallum said, “The people of Surrey did not elect this Council to study things. They elected us to get things done, and that work starts at our first meeting.” McCallum also said Surrey is about to become the largest city in British Columbia and it needs safe neighbourhoods and recreation facilities”. “Surrey's best days are still ahead of us, and we will get there together,” said Mayor McCallum. The first regular meeting of the new Council will take place on Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers at Surrey City Hall. Council meetings are open to the public and live streamed at surrey.ca.

BANDI CHOR DIVAS Wishing everyone celebrating Diwali and Bandi Chor Divas a joyous occasion filled with light, happiness, and prosperity.

May these celebrations bring peace, hope, and togetherness to families and communities across Canada. Member of Parliament

Fleetwood-port Kells

301-16088 84 Ave, Surrey, BC V4N 0V9 (604) 484-6161

BC's incoming premier names chief of staff ahead of swearing-in B.C. premier-elect Lorne Doerkson has chosen Dimitri Pantazopoulos as his chief of staff, bringing a key figure from the Conservative Party of British Columbia’s provincial election campaign into the incoming Premier’s Office. The appointment, announced today during the party’s first caucus meeting since the election, will take effect when Doerkson and his cabinet are sworn in. Doerkson pointed to Pantazopoulos’ previous experience as a reason for selecting him to run his office as the new administration prepares to take power. According to the announcement, Pantazopoulos has more than 20 years of political strategy and government experience, including previous senior roles in the Premier’s Office. He previously served as principal secretary to Premier Christy Clark’s initial BC Liberals administration, followed by other roles in intergovernmental relations and trade. A veteran pollster and political strategist, he has worked on campaigns for Stephen Harper, Doug Ford, Jason Kenney, and Andrew Wilkinson. His private sector background includes serving as president of public opinion research firm Yorkville Strategies and as a partner at Maple Leaf Strategies. “I told British Columbians that when this government is sworn in, it will be ready on day one, and that starts with the people around me,” said Doerkson in a statement. Additional appointments to the Premier’s Office are expected to be announced over the coming weeks. Lorne and the rest of the elected MLAs will be sworn in on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2026. His cabinet will be announced the following day. On Oct. 29, the BC NDP announced New Westminster-Coquitlam MLA Jennifer Whitside as their interim party leader.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

SELECTION

SERVICE

SALE

PINE LIGHTING wishes everyone

HAPPY DIWALI & BANDI CHORR DIWAS

We have huge Variety of CEILING LIGHTS

WALL LIGHTS

VISIT OUR SURREY LOCATION TODAY!

FANS

LAMPS

HOME DECOR

604-591-8895

6878 King George Hwy., Surrey, BC

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Russian hacker group claims to have posted Burnaby school district information on dark web Continued from Page 1... While CBC News has not downloaded the contents of the files themselves, the screenshot samples posted on the Qilin website contain school district letterhead and human resource categories attached to what appear to be bulky files of data. The September attack on the Burnaby School District raised alarms with parents and students who contacted CBC News concerned that children's data may be in the hands of cybercriminals bent on exploiting deeply personal information for profit. The files appear on Qilin's dark web site in what is effectively a multi-page listing of sets of data stolen from various agencies, companies and individuals worldwide. According to the screenshots posted online, the files contain a terabyte worth of data and have allegedly been seen nearly 4,000 times since they

were first posted publicly on Oct. 15. Screenshots of the files include folders labelled "Harassment Investigations," "Discipline," "Payroll" and "Mental health and Wellness." In a statement to CBC News, the Burnaby School District said it has shared "reliable information with staff and families as it becomes available." "We have engaged an external expert to help confirm whether data from the Burnaby School District has in fact been posted on the dark web and, if so, the nature and extent of any affected information," the statement said. According to the school district, hackers gained access to the district's systems on Sept. 21. The perpetrators appear to have started posting information online almost immediately. We received numerous emails about the incident after district superintendent Karim Hachlaf wrote to families on Oct. 14 confirming that "files taken

containing personal information were copied and stolen by the criminal parties responsible for the attack." Hachlaf's note claimed "most of the information maintained by the district about students, parents and guardians remains secure" but noted that "some bus touring information, student intervention records and other student assessments" had been affected "in a limited and smaller number of cases." "In recent years, Qilin has been tied to a series of crippling high-profile ransomware attacks — most notably a 2024 cyberattack on Britain's National Health Service that saw major London hospitals cancel operations and blood transfusions. Just last month, Japanese authorities handed over a Russian national accused of being involved with Qilin in connection with a European ransomware attack to German authorities. Ransomware attacks on health-care services and school districts have

risen around North America, with schools in the U.S and Canada being targeted. More than 60 million students and nine million teachers in both countries were impacted by a data breach of educational software provider PowerSchool. The Associated Press found files describing sexual assaults, private hospitalizations and parental abuse among troves of data dumped online by a ransomware group that demanded $1 million in exchange for 300,000 files stolen from a school district in Minneapolis. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security describes Qilin's business model as one in which "a core group of developers will sell or lease their ransomware variant to other threat actors, called affiliates; the core developers will support affiliates' deployment of their ransomware in exchange for upfront payment, subscription fees, a cut of profits, or all three."

Carney's new budget aims to end homelessness Continued from Page 1... The federal government says it will work with provinces, municipalities and philanthropic partners to provide Canadians experiencing homelessness with jobs, training and income support. One in 10 Canadians say they have experienced homelessness, while one in three report knowing someone affected, according to an Abacus survey from October. In 2017, Canada pledged to reduce chronic homelessness by 50 per cent by the 2027-28 fiscal year. Instead, homelessness surged by 59 per cent between 2020 and 2025, according to a report by Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada. One of the new ways the budget plans to tackle the crisis is by introducing an "integrated supports fund" through Build Canada Homes. It proposes through Build Canada Homes building new supportive and transitional housing across Canada, supporting capital costs — though province and territory partners will be the ones expected to fund operations and services associated with the housing projects. The budget also proposes $2 billion over two years for the Health Infrastructure Fund, and to maintain $6.5 billion in support for existing programs Reaching Home and the Veterans Homelessness Program over the next 10 years. Plus, it proposes renewing the Canada Housing Benefit for another 10 years. In particular, the government is proposing a new housing partnership directly with Manitoba, investing $1 billion through Build Canada Homes. The money will go to transitional housing and wraparound services – personalized supports that aim to address overlapping issues — in Winnipeg, and to building 2,000 new transitional and permanent supportive housing units in the city. "We will begin immediately in Winnipeg to break the cycle of homelessness," the budget said, delivering plans to provide care and permanent housing for the over 2,000 people experiencing homelessness in the city. The budget stipulates that Manitoba will need to continue funding its current services "to make these investments successful," citing Toronto's Dunn House project as a successful example of a similar investment. Ahead of 2027's expected spring economic update, the government says if the budget is passed, it will work with provinces and territories on aligning bilateral agreements to follow through on ending the crisis in the next 10 years. NDP Leader Avi Lewis, who was critical of the overall budget, called the funding to end homelessness "a good thing." Jean-Denis Garon, the Bloc Québécois finance critic, said the federal funds should be put toward the province's efforts to tackle homelessness.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

INCOME TAX

INVESTING

ESTATE PLANNING

ACCOUNTING

Arvinder S Bubber

FCPA, FCA

Chartered Professional Accountant

“Your Success is our Business”

Office: 604 599 7262 208 - 8120 128 Street, Surrey, BC V2W 1R1

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Wishing Everyone

HAPPY DIWALI & BANDI CHHOR DIWAS

200 – 6245 136th Street, Surrey, BC V3X 1H3

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Over 14,000 new condos unsold in Metro Vancouver with sales at record low Thousands of new strata market ownership condominium homes remain unsold in Metro Vancouver, all while developers have sharply reduced the number of new homes they are bringing to market. According to the findings from Rennie’s Fall 2026 report and MLA Canada’s October 2026 report, the region’s new-built market continues to struggle to attract buyers, even as prices decline and purchasers have plenty of options. The slowdown has implications beyond the homes that are currently available. With few new presale projects launching, Rennie warns that the supply of condominiums at the earliest stage of development is becoming increasingly limited. More than 14,000 new condominiums were unsold across Metro Vancouver at the end of June 2026, according to Rennie. That total includes homes at different stages of development — from projects awaiting construction to newly completed units ready for occupancy. Only 15 per cent of those unsold condominiums were in projects where construction had yet to begin. Another 56 per cent, representing nearly 8,000 homes, were under construction — approximately twice the number already finished and awaiting buyers. Meanwhile, just 1,340 new condominiums were sold across the region during the first six months of 2026, which is a record low according to Rennie. That sales figure includes new condominiums at all stages of construction. “Metro Vancouver’s condo market isn’t really a pre-sale market anymore — it’s a new-home market,” said Ryan Wyse, market intelligence manager and lead analyst at Rennie.

“With this much supply still working its way through construction, and with sales at a record low, we expect completed and unsold inventory to keep rising before this cycle turns.” Rennie notes that no concrete condominium tower presale launches had occurred in Metro Vancouver so far in 2026. Most of the remaining unsold units in condominium projects that had not started construction were in woodframe developments. The firm expects many projects that are otherwise ready to begin selling to remain on hold. Separately, MLA Canada’s September 2026 figures show how little new presale supply was reaching buyers across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Just two projects launched that month, releasing a combined 32 pre-sale condominium homes. Neither launch reported a sale. Over the previous five years, the month of September averaged approximately seven presale launches and 870 newly released homes, with more than 35 per cent typically selling within the same month. September 2026’s release total was approximately 96 per cent below that historical average. It was also down from the 76 homes released across two project launches in August 2026. “September gave buyers more choice and lower prices, but not the confidence to act,” said Melissa Nestoruk, the advisory intelligence manager at MLA Canada. MLA Canada’s report forecast another two presale launches for October 2026, comprising 117 homes in a wood-frame project and 55 townhomes. Those 172 homes were projections when the report was published, rather than confirmed month-end results.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Calgary man uncovers names, Air India boarding pass and cheque in roadside garbage A Calgary man cleaning up illegally dumped garbage north of the Homestead community has uncovered a collection of personal documents, including an apparent airline boarding pass, cheque and paperwork bearing several Southeast Asian names, potentially providing clues about where the discarded waste originated.

The discovery was documented Monday through the Instagram account @oneditchatatime, which features cleanup efforts targeting garbage abandoned along roadsides and in open areas around Calgary. The latest incident occurred north of Homestead in northeast Calgary, where the man reportedly encountered discarded materials containing personal information. Images shared from the cleanup show what appears to be an Air India economy boarding pass, a cheque, a Calgary-addressed envelope, a retail receipt and other paperwork scattered among the waste. A subsequent post circulating on X highlighted five names reportedly found among the discarded

documents, accompanied by the phrase "Shame shame to." Illegal dumping remains an ongoing concern in Calgary, particularly in developing communities and areas on the outskirts of the city. Discarded household garbage, construction debris, furniture and other waste can create environmental hazards and leave municipal crews responsible for removing materials abandoned by others. Under Calgary's existing enforcement rules, individuals caught illegally dumping garbage can face substantial fines, with penalties reaching up to $10,000. The city encourages residents who encounter illegally dumped waste to report it through 311, providing photographs and location details where possible. Identifying information recovered from discarded materials may also assist investigators, although additional evidence is generally needed to establish responsibility. The incident comes amid efforts by the Alberta government to strengthen penalties for illegal dumping. The province has proposed increasing fines for individuals convicted of illegal dumping to between $10,000 and $100,000, while corporations could face penalties ranging from $100,000 to $1 million. The proposed measures are intended to deter offenders and address the environmental and financial costs associated with unauthorized waste disposal.

NOW ORDER ONLINE:

Monday-Friday - 12:00pm - 9:30pm & Saturday-Sunday - 12:00pm - 10:00pm

9450 120 St #102, Surrey 604.593.3813

7320 King George Blvd #107

Across from Newton Police Station

604.503.3833

SOUTH ASIA

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Baloch Women Forum organiser condemns enforced disappearance of MPhil student Khalil Baloch, demands immediate release Areas of Practice ICBC/Personal Injury Immigration Law Corporate / Commercial Real Estate / Property Development

Puneet P.K. Sandhar

Barinder S. Sanghera

B.A.,LL.B. (GND)

B.Comm.,LL.B. (UBC)

psandhar@slglawyers.com

bss@slglawyers.com

Baloch Women Forum organiser Shalee Baloch has condemned the alleged enforced disappearance of Khalil Baloch, an MPhil student at the University of Karachi, calling it another example of the repression faced by educated Baloch youth, particularly students. In a post on X, Shalee Baloch said Khalil, who hails from Awaran in Balochistan, was allegedly forcibly disappeared by security forces outside the university's administration block on August 4, 2026. She said three months had passed since his disappearance, but his family remained without answers, facing continued anguish and uncertainty over his whereabouts. Describing the incident as a reflection of

the vulnerability of Baloch students, Shalee Baloch alleged that enforced disappearances, intimidation and collective punishment were increasingly being used as instruments of control against the Baloch population. She further said these practices echoed colonial-era tactics aimed at suppressing intellectual freedom, spreading fear and undermining the aspirations of the people. According to her post, targeting students pursuing education and a better future creates an atmosphere of fear for an entire generation. Shalee Baloch called on the authorities to immediately disclose Khalil's whereabouts, ensure his safe and unconditional release, and hold those responsible accountable.

#201, 12565 88 Ave, Surrey, B.C. V3W 3J7

Phone: 604.543.8484 Fax: 604.543.8584

info@slglawyers.com www.slglawyers.com

200 – 6245 - 136th St., Surrey, B.C. V3X 1H3

FIJI

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Is Fiji ready for a non-iTaukei PM That was Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry’s response when 2000 coup convict Varina Tiko questioned whether Fiji was ready to accept a non-iTaukei prime minister. The exchange took place during the Fijian Media Association town hall meeting in Nasinu last night, where members of the public gathered to discuss the proposed constitutional changes. Mr Tiko said he wanted a straightforward answer to a question he believed was central to Fiji’s political future. “My simple question is this, and I want you to honestly answer this: Yes or no? Is the country ready for a no-iTaukei prime minister?” He said the repeated discussion of coups continued to reopen painful wounds for many Fijians. “I believe everyone is fed up of the word coup,” he said, adding that hearing the term brought back difficult memories. Mr Tiko drew parallels between the current constitutional reform process and the political climate surrounding the 1997 Constitution.

“This is the same thing that happened in ’97, when the Constitution was rushed, the people were complaining,” he said. “They were not happy with what Rabuka was doing.” He also questioned proposed constitutional provisions relating to the military and Cabinet, raising concerns about how the military would respond in the event of political unrest. “What happens if the people rise up and arrest the Cabinet? Who will the military listen to?” Mr Tiko warned that public dissatisfaction could grow if people later discovered that the constitutional changes did not deliver what they had been led to expect. He also raised concerns about the translation of the proposed legislation and whether communities fully understood its implications. Returning to heis original question, he directly challenged Mr Chaudhry. “Are we ready for a non-iTaukei prime minister, Mr Chaudhry? What is your answer?” “Let the people decide. Let the people decide.”

Chinese fugitive arrested in Savusavu A chinese national wanted in his home country for alleged financial crimes has been arrested by police in Savusavu. The Fiji Times understands the man, who was reportedly on INTERPOL’s wanted list, arrived in Savusavu aboard a yacht last Saturday. He was subsequently arrested by Fiji police and is now being detained pending deportation to China. The man is understood to be wanted in China over allegations relating to benefiting from the proceeds of crime. Questions sent to the Fiji Police Force seeking confirmation of the arrest, the man’s identity, his legal status and the circumstances surrounding his detention have remained unanswered for the past two days. In response to questions from The Fiji Times, INTERPOL said arrests in member countries were carried out by national law

enforcement authorities under their respective domestic laws. “Any arrest in a member country is made by national police in accordance with national legislation, and we would therefore advise you to contact the Fiji police for any information about any potential arrest, and if any information has been shared via INTERPOL,” the organisation stated. INTERPOL did not confirm whether the man was the subject of an international notice or whether information relating to his arrest had been shared through its channels.

8 years jail for marital rape A 34-YEAR-OLD truck driver has been sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment for raping his wife at their family home in the early hours of the morning after she repeatedly refused his demands for sex. The High Court heard that on May 27, 2026, after returning home from hospital with their sick sevenyear-old son, the man asked his wife for sex several times. She refused, saying she was tired and needed to attend to their child. The man then used force to make her sit on a mattress, raped her, and also used an unidentified hard object in the act. Justice Daniel Goundar said marriage did not

give the man the right to sexual intercourse without his wife’s consent. The court also imposed a permanent domestic violence restraining order protecting the victim. The man will be eligible for parole after serving six years of his sentence.

APPLIANCES REPAIR SERVICE FRIDGES WASHERS DRYERS STOVES DISHWASHERS Fast-Prompt-Reliable CALL US TODAY!

604 833 0068

BEST SERVICE AND MORTGAGE RATES

Call us for Lowest Mortgage Rates on Your Mortgage Renewals and New Mortgages. We have helped thousands of our clients. We have a big pool of Private Mortgages to help you.

Private Mortgage Residential / Re-ﬁnance Self Employed Construction Mortgage

WESTWIDE MORTGAGE CORP. #204 8334 128th Street, Surrey, B.C. V3W 4G2

Ajitabh Gandhi Mortgage Consultant

778 707 1028 Email: westwidemortgage@gmail.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Wishing Everyone

& Bandi Chhor Diwas

Lakhvinder Gill

Puneet Sandhar

Anoop Sihra

Ravi Cheema

Kuldip Gill

Jatinder Sandhar

Ken Dhillon

Victor Lall

President

1st Vice President

2nd Vice President

Treasure

Past President

Ruby Bains

Supreet Gill

Amrit Deol

Arvinder Sodhi

Dilbagh S Mann

Bawa Kehal

Aman Bring

Harbhajan Parhar

Joint Secretary

Secretary

Director

Jagdeep Gill

Arvinder S. Bubber

Dimpu Thandi

Dr. C. Preet Chahal

Dr Jaspinder Ghuman

Perminder Chohan

Simrath Grewal

Waris Purewal

Director

Bringing Together The Very Best of South Asian Businesses Within British Columbia Chattar Raj Gill

Sahaj Monga

Narinderjeet S Sabharwal

Khushpal Singh Taunk

Maghar Singh Dhaliwal

Late Balwinder S. Chahal

Director

Founding President, SABA

Founding Member

sababc.ca

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026