In a strongly worded statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the “deliberate attack” on a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ontario, Canada.
Further, PM Modi also slammed the “cowardly attempts” to intimidate Indian diplomats stationed in the country, calling on the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.
PM Modi condemns attack on Hindu Temple in Canada
“I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” PM Modi posted on X.
The remarks come after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also condemned the acts of violence perpetrated by “extremists and separatists” against the Hindu temple in Brampton. The MEA urged the Justin Trudeau-led Canadian government to ensure adequate protection for all places of worship and prosecute those involved in the violence.
“We call on the Government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks. We also expect that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted,” said MEA spokesperson Randir Jaiswal during a press conference.
What happened in Canada’s Brampton?
Unverified videos circulating on social media showed protesters carrying Khalistani flags clashing with people at the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton. The footage appeared to show demonstrators holding banners in support of Khalistan and engaging in physical altercations, with individuals striking each other with flagpoles.
Justin Trudeau on Hindu Temple Attack in Canada
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also condemned the incident, stating that every Canadian has the fundamental right to practice their faith freely and safely. “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. Thank you to the Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident,” Trudeau said on X.
This latest episode comes amid a deteriorating relationship between India and Canada, which took a sharp downturn in September 2022 when Trudeau alleged that Indian agents might have been involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – a claim firmly rejected by New Delhi.
PM Modi’s strong condemnation and demand for justice reflect India’s growing concern over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel and the Hindu community in Canada. The government expects the Canadian authorities to take swift and decisive action to address these incidents and uphold the principles of religious freedom and the rule of law.
