Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other political leaders have strongly condemned a violent incident at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, where devotees were reportedly attacked by alleged Khalistani supporters on Sunday.
Justin Trudeau condemns attack on Hindu temple in Brampton
“The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely,” Trudeau declared, commending law enforcement for their swift response and ongoing investigation.
What happened in Brampton?
Video footage circulating on social media showed men wielding sticks attacking temple-goers, with the Hindu Canadian Foundation reporting that women and children were among those targeted. The attackers were seen carrying flags associated with pro-Khalistani groups.
The incident reportedly occurred following a demonstration commemorating the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
“Can’t tolerate violence & criminal acts”
Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the distinction between peaceful protest and violence: “We respect the right to protest peacefully and safely, but we will not tolerate violence and criminal acts.”
He assured that perpetrators would face arrest and charges.
Conservative Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre voiced his concerns on social media: “All Canadians should be free to practice their faith in peace… I will unite our people and end the chaos.”
What do Indo-Canadian politicians say?
The incident drew particular attention from Indo-Canadian politicians. Transport Minister Anita Anand called the attacks “unacceptable,” asserting that “all religions, Hindus included, have the right to attend places of worship and practice their religion without such assaults.”
MP Chandra Arya took a stronger stance, stating that “a red line has been crossed by Canadian Khalistani extremists today.” He expressed concern about the growing boldness of “Khalistani violent extremism” in Canada, suggesting that extremists were receiving “a free pass” under the guise of freedom of expression.
“Religious freedom is a foundational value”
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown expressed disappointment over the violence, stating, “Religious freedom is a foundational value in Canada. Everyone should feel safe in their place of worship.” He assured that police would “do everything in their authority to keep the peace and hold those accountable who commit acts of violence.”
The Hindu Forum Canada reported similar tensions at the Laksminarayan Mandir in Surrey, while prominent Sikh leader and Trudeau aide Jagmeet Singh called for peace, stating “Violence anywhere is wrong.”
India-Canada relations on stake
This incident occurs against the backdrop of strained India-Canada relations, with ongoing diplomatic tensions over Ottawa’s handling of Khalistani extremism and India’s concerns about targeting of Khalistani individuals within its borders.
Local authorities have increased security presence in the area, and investigations are ongoing.
