What to know
- The Ontario Provincial Police have opened an investigation into Toronto city councillor Parthi Kandavel, who says he was “surprised” by the news.
- Kandavel, representing Scarborough-Southwest, says he is still learning the details and vows to address any allegations against him.
- The OPP have not confirmed details of the investigation publicly, and Kandavel has not yet registered to run in the 2026 municipal election.
- Kandavel won a 2023 by-election and previously served as a Toronto District School Board trustee from 2014 to 2022.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have launched an investigation into Toronto city councillor Parthi Kandavel, who said he was “surprised” to learn of the allegations.
On Sunday, Scarborough-Southwest Councillor Kandavel issued a statement confirming the OPP investigation, calling it unexpected. The news follows an initial report by Toronto Today.
“On Friday afternoon, I was surprised to learn of an OPP investigation into allegations against me. I recognize this is difficult news and hope to resolve the situation quickly,” Kandavel said.
He added that he is still learning about the investigation and the nature of the allegations, and will provide more information as it becomes available.
“I’ve strived to maintain the highest standards of ethics and integrity and will address any allegations that suggest otherwise,” he said.
The OPP have not publicly confirmed details of the investigation. However, a recent Toronto Star article notes that the force has sought information regarding a high-rise project in the ward at 708–712 Kennedy Road.
The development was approved last June after Kandavel introduced a motion to the city to accept a settlement offer from the property owners.
Kandavel is completing his first term on city council after winning a 2023 by-election triggered by the resignation of former councillor Gary Crawford. Before his time on council, he served as a Toronto District School Board trustee from 2014 to 2022.
The news comes just over a week after nominations opened for the 2026 municipal election, which Kandavel has not yet registered to run.
Now Toronto reached out to the OPP for comment but did not receive a response in time for publication.
