Canada’s first MP Beauty Queen Ruby Dhalla  has resigned as she faces charges of mistreatment of her two nannies.

35-year-old Dhalla represents the Indian-dominated constituency of Brampton-Sprindale on the outskirts of Toronto.

Her two nannies - Magdalene Gordo, 31, and Richelyn Tongson, 37 - Two foreign caregivers employed by Dhalla’s family say their passports were seized. They also claim they were forced to work 12-15 hours a day for sub-minimum wages, and perform non-caregiver duties such as washing cars, shining shoes and cleaning clinics. The allegations, published in the Toronto Star, have not been proven.

In a statement, the  MP said: “This morning I called the leader (Michael Ignatieff) to personally tender my resignation as multiculturalism and youth critic in order to focus my attention on clearing my name.

“I will work with the appropriate officials to ensure the facts of the matter are clarified and corrected regarding my family’s experience with live-in caregivers and will work vigorously to defend my reputation. I am honoured to represent the people of Brampton-Springdale and I will continue to do so. My constituents remain my first priority.”

Accepting her resignation, party leader Michael Ignatieff said, “This morning I accepted Ruby Dhalla’s resignation as youth and multiculturalism critic. Ms. Dhalla will continue to serve as the Liberal Member of Parliament for Brampton-Springdale. I look forward to a determination of the facts regarding her family’s experience with live-in caregivers.”
A three-time MP, Dhalla became the first Sikh woman parliamentarian in Canada in 2004.