In a surprising turn, former Canadian Human Rights Commissioner Birju Dattani has initiated a defamation lawsuit against Conservative MP Melissa Lantsman and others, alleging a coordinated and malicious campaign aimed at damaging his reputation. The legal documents were filed in Ontario’s Superior Court of Justice, underscoring serious claims that Lantsman’s remarks tarnished Dattani’s career right after his June 2024 appointment, which sparked backlash from some Conservative and Jewish groups who demanded his resignation.
Lantsman is accused of employing harmful language intended to undermine Dattani’s standing, stating in the lawsuit, “By spreading these poisonous allegations… MP Lantsman ensured that her false representations discredited Mr. Dattani.” The claims against Dattani remain unproven in court, with the defendants yet to issue statements of defense.
Among the allegations include Lantsman’s posts on social media, calling Dattani an “antisemite” who supports anti-Israel sentiments. Notably, Dattani previously participated in a contentious panel alongside a Hizb ut-Tahrir member, which has raised previously sourced accusations regarding his impartiality. Dattani vehemently disputes these claims and stated he was unaware of his association with the controversial figure.
The lawsuit seeks $650,000 in damages along with a formal declaration that Lantsman defamed him, asserting that her statements were crafted to provoke outrage and portray him as morally reprehensible. A Conservative representative expressed that Lantsman will vigorously contest the allegations, deeming them baseless. Dattani is also pursuing similar claims against Ezra Levant and the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, both of whom deny any wrongdoing.
Interestingly, an independent investigation found no evidence to support the accusations of antisemitism against Dattani, citing the absence of any bias in his conduct. Despite this, the investigation did highlight some omitted details in Dattani’s background check submissions, which have become points of contention in this ongoing legal battle, painting a complex narrative of accusation, defense, and the struggle for reputational recovery in a sensitive political landscape.
Birju Dattani is suing Conservative MP Melissa Lantsman for defamation, claiming she led a malicious campaign to tarnish his reputation after his appointment as the head of the Canadian Human Rights Commission. Dattani’s lawsuit cites Lantsman’s damaging social media posts and reports about his past, which characterize him as unfit for the role. He seeks $650,000 in damages, while Lantsman and other accused parties stand firm in denying the allegations.
The defamation lawsuit launched by Birju Dattani against Melissa Lantsman encapsulates a significant clash within Canadian politics regarding accusations of antisemitism and professional integrity. As Dattani seeks redress for perceived reputational harm, the case underscores the intense scrutiny faced by public figures and the intricate web of social media dynamics in today’s political discourse. The outcome of this lawsuit may have broader implications for future appointments in the realm of human rights and advocacy.
Original Source: www.cbc.ca
