Problem is a concerning issue for many gambling enthusiasts letting things spiral out of hand without even realizing it. Former Liberal MP Raj Grewal recognized his unhealthy relationship with gambling and stepped away from the Liberal caucus at the end of last year, taking his time to work on the tendencies. Now it has been confirmed that he would not be part of the federal election on October 21.
Compulsive gambling is a tendency that has the potential to change a person’s life and have a negative impact on various aspects of it. This includes personal relationships, the way one interacts with friends and acquaintances, as well as the financial burden it could impose on the player and their family. Maintaining a healthy relationship with gaming is essential for the longevity and quality of the relationship a casino patron has with gaming in general.
Gambling Addiction Took Its Toll
Nobody appears to be protected against the possibility of developing an unhealthy relationship with gambling. Such was the case of Liberal MP Raj Grewal who was very public about his experience and the steps he plans to follow to fully recover. He recently made it clear that he is going to complete his term, as he considers it his duty.
Mr. Grewal also pointed out that his plan for the foreseeable future includes focusing on his private legal practice in Brampton once the election is over. He would not run as a candidate in the federal election, anticipated by all Canadians. Over the past few months, voters across the nation have expressed their support of the Brampton MP, many of them relating to the personal struggles he had been facing.
According to the publicly issued information, the debt he accumulated over years of gambling reached over CA$1,000,000, something concerning many voters and people worried about the money’s origin. His leading position in relation to the finance committee also raised questions that needed answers.
Mr. Grewal Focuses on Private Legal Practice
Back then, New Democrat Charlie Angus said the public deserves more information on the source of MP Grewal’s casino money, methodically poured in gaming venues. NDP MP Nathan Cullen was also among the officials to seek more answers about the nature of his gambling habits. Mr. Cullen also highlighted earlier questions Mr. Grewal had allegedly asked senior officials, implying that he needs advice on avoiding detection.
The official’s name also appeared in an OPP probe of individuals allegedly involved in money laundering and other criminal activities linked to the Middle East. Their personal conversations obtained via wiretaps have his names mentioned several times in relation to his gambling addiction and the debt he has generated. MP Grewal himself made it clear that his family helped him with loans by cheque, thus all traceable.
The beginning of this year saw speculations on a fundraising event in April 2018 that amassed nearly CA$285,000. It took place around the time when he was struggling with debts. Allegedly, the event saw as many as 1,200 individuals making their way in, a record amount for this type of event. Up until that point, the overall number of individuals rarely surpassed 100 people attending a given event and this sudden surge of interest triggered concerns in the public space.