- Born
- April 29, 1952 — Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
- Education
- Diploma in computer operations
- Career
- Real estate agent
- Political Experience
- Appointed to the Senate of Canada on July 9, 2010; Conservative Party candidate in Mississauga—Brampton South during the 2008 federal election
- Notable
- Advocate for the Pakistani community; served on the executive board of the Canadian branch of The Citizens Foundation; executive member of the Canadian Pashtun Cultural Association; immigrated to Canada in 1980 from Pakistan; artist; founded the parents council at David Lewis Public School in Toronto; served as the executive of the Pakistani Canadian Professionals and Academics; president and vice-president of the Canadian Pashtun Cultural Association; on the executive of the South Asian Regional Council and Citizens Foundation's Toronto chapter; father is Saranjam Khan, a former Pakistani senator; great-great-uncle Bacha Khan, led a non-violent Khudai Khidmatgar Muslim movement for Indian independence from British rule; holds Dual-citizenship with Pakistan.
Based on publicly available information — may contain inaccuracies
Business & Financial Interests
Before her appointment to the Senate in 2010, Salma Ataullahjan reportedly worked as a real estate agent. She is also known for her community activism and art. Public disclosure summaries from the Office of the Senate Ethics Officer have not indicated any significant declarable private interests or assets beyond what is typical for a senator, such as a primary residence.
Key Relationships & Connections
Salma Ataullahjan was appointed to the Senate by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. She has been an active member of the Conservative caucus. She is also known for her extensive involvement in community organizations, particularly within the Pakistani and Pashtun communities in the Greater Toronto Area. She is reportedly a founding member of the Canadian Pashtun Cultural Association.
Public Controversies
In 2015, Senator Ataullahjan was named in a comprehensive report by the Auditor General of Canada that examined Senate expenses. The audit found that she had improperly claimed approximately $3,600 in travel and living expenses. According to media reports at the time, she disagreed with the findings but repaid the full amount as required.