The Hindu Mahasabha Temple in Brampton, Canada, was attacked on Sunday amid escalating tensions between India and Canada. In a video that has gone viral, Khalistani supporters were seen assaulting devotees and trespassing on the temple premises. This incident has drawn widespread condemnation from Canadian leaders and community representatives.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Leader of the Opposition Pierre Poilievre both condemned the violence. PM Trudeau stated, “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.” Poilievre echoed these sentiments, calling the violence targeting worshippers at the temple “completely unacceptable” and emphasizing that all Canadians should be free to practice their faith in peace. He added, “Conservatives condemn this violence unequivocally. I will unite our people and end the chaos.”
The High Commission of India in Ottawa also released a strong statement on Monday condemning the attack, attributing it to “anti-India” elements. The statement read, “We have seen violent disruption today (November 3), orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organised with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, near Toronto.” Peel Regional Police confirmed that they were aware of the protest taking place at the temple and had increased their presence to maintain public order and safety. Chief Nishan Duraiappah stated on X that while they respect the right to protest peacefully, they will not tolerate violence and criminal acts.
Indian-origin Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya also condemned the attack and expressed concerns about the increasing frequency of attacks on Hindus in Canada. He remarked on social media, “A red line has been crossed by Canadian Khalistani extremists today.” Arya highlighted the brazen nature of Khalistani violent extremism in Canada and expressed his belief that these extremists have infiltrated various aspects of the Canadian political and law enforcement systems. He called on Hindu-Canadians to assert their rights and hold politicians accountable for the safety and security of their community.
