Indian PM Narendra Modi Denounces Targeted Attack on Hindu Temple in Canada

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned what he described as a "deliberate attack" outside a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. The incident, which occurred during a consular event organized by the Indian High Commission, involved a violent clash between attendees and demonstrators reportedly waving Khalistan flags. This clash took place at the Hindu Sabha Mandir, where Indian nationals had gathered to receive consular services, such as passport renewals. Footage circulating on social media shows participants wielding flagpoles and engaging in physical altercations. The Peel Police responded swiftly to the incident, charging three men and suspending an off-duty officer who allegedly participated in the protests. Peel Police spokesperson Richard Chin confirmed the officer's suspension and stated that the incident is under investigation. The timing of this confrontation comes amid tense diplomatic relations between India and Canada. The two nations’ ties have strained since Canada accused Indian intelligence of involvement in the 2023 killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, an allegation India has denied. In response to the Brampton clash, Modi issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter) condemning the incident and calling on the Canadian government to uphold justice and protect diplomatic personnel. “Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve,” Modi stated, urging Canadian authorities to ensure the safety of Indian citizens and community spaces in Canada. The Hindu Sabha Mandir incident is the latest in a series of conflicts related to the pro-Khalistan movement, which seeks to establish an independent Sikh state in Punjab, India. This movement remains a point of friction between India and Canada, where segments of the Sikh diaspora have openly supported the cause. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also addressed the violence, condemning the attacks and emphasizing the right of all Canadians to practice their faith safely. “The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable,” Trudeau posted on X, thanking the Peel Police for their prompt response. India’s external affairs minister, S. Jaishankar, while on a visit to Australia, echoed Modi's concerns, labeling the Brampton violence as “deeply concerning” and emphasizing India’s expectation that Canada will safeguard its Indian diaspora. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi has urged Canada to prosecute those responsible for the violence, describing the attack as the work of “extremists and separatists.” In light of the incident, Peel Police have increased patrols around temples and community hubs in Ontario to prevent further disturbances, and Indian-origin residents in Brampton have held peaceful protests, calling for enhanced security measures to protect Indian community spaces.

ruwan

November 5, 2024