Canada: Indian-origin truck driver Jaskirat Singh Sidhu who killed 16 in 2018 crash loses deportation appeal

NEW DELHI: Jaskirat Singh Sidhu, the Indian-origin truck driver responsible for the tragic Humboldt Broncos bus crash in Canada, has failed in his attempt to avoid deportation to India, as reported by CBC News.

Sidhu, who pleaded guilty to dangerous driving charges, saw his bid to remain in Canada dismissed by a judge. The devastating crash occurred on April 6, 2018, at the intersection of Saskatchewan Highway 35 and Saskatchewan Highway 335, resulting in 16 fatalities and 13 injuries.

Having received an eight-year prison sentence, Sidhu had been employed for less than a month before the accident. The newly married permanent resident drove through a stop sign near Tisdale, Saskatchewan, colliding with the junior hockey team's bus on its way to a playoff game.

Earlier this year, Sidhu was granted parole, and the Canada Border Services Agency recommended his deportation. Despite arguments from Sidhu's lawyer, Michael Greene, emphasizing his clean criminal record and remorse, the Federal Court upheld the decision.

Chief Justice Paul Crampton acknowledged the tragic consequences of the crash but deemed the border officials' assessment fair. Crampton emphasized the "extraordinary degree of genuine, heart-wrenching remorse" but stated that Sidhu now faces deportation to India after years of building a life in Canada.

While Sidhu has the option to request to stay on humanitarian and compassionate grounds, families affected by the crash hold differing views on his deportation. Some, like Toby Boulet, desire Sidhu's removal, expressing a lack of ill feelings but a strong wish not to encounter him. Chris Joseph, who lost his son in the crash, supports the decision, viewing it as the right message.

However, Scott Thomas, the father of one victim, Evan Thomas, forgives Sidhu and has advocated for him to remain in Canada. Thomas believes Sidhu will carry the consequences of his actions for the rest of his life, regardless of his location.