Canada PM condemns attack on worshippers at Brampton Hindu temple

A small band of alleged Khalistani activists attacked Hindu worshippers with sticks in front of a  Hindu Sabha temple in Canada's Brampton city on Sunday.

The violence prompted widespread condemnation from political leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Mr Trudeau wrote in his post on X: “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."

Chandra Arya, member of the Canadian parliament, condemned the attack on the temple and said that a "red line has been crossed" by Khalistani extremists. Taking to X, he wrote, “The attack by Khalistanis on the Hindu-Canadian devotees inside the premises of the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton shows how deep and brazen Khalistani violent extremism has become in Canada. I begin to feel that there is a small grain of truth in the reports that in addition to Canadian political apparatus, Khalistanis have effectively infiltrated into our law enforcement agencies.”

“No wonder that under the 'freedom of expression' Khalistani extremists are getting a free pass in Canada. As I have been saying for long, Hindu-Canadians, for the security and safety of our community, need to step up and assert their rights and hold politicians accountable,” he added.

Opposition leader Poilevre on violence

Canadian opposition leader Pierre Poilievre strongly condemned the attack. Sharing a post on X, Mr Poilievre wrote, “Completely unacceptable to see violence targeting worshippers at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today.”

"All Canadians should be free to practice their faith in peace. Conservatives condemn this violence unequivocally. I will unite our people and end the chaos," he added.

The recent attack adds to a string of similar incidents documented in recent years, underscoring a distressing trend of religious intolerance.

Last year, a Hindu temple in Windsor suffered defacement with anti-India graffiti, sparking widespread condemnation and calls for action from both Canadian and Indian officials. Earlier incidents in Mississauga and Brampton saw temples similarly targeted, drawing strong reactions from the Indian community in Canada.

Worsening India-Canada relations

Ties between India and Canada began deteriorating last year after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited “credible allegations” that agents of the Indian government were linked to the death of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. New Delhi has repeatedly denied the allegations — calling them "absurd" and "motivated" — and accused Canada of giving space to extremist and anti-India elements in their country.

(By arrangement with livemint.com)