India has condemned a recent attack on a Hindu temple in Canada, calling it “deeply disturbing.” The incident happened at a consular camp near Toronto, organized by India’s diplomatic mission, where a mob believed to support Khalistan — a movement for a separate Sikh state — reportedly targeted people gathered at the temple.
In videos circulating online, men carrying sticks and pro-Khalistan flags are seen confronting temple visitors in Brampton, a city just outside Toronto. Shockingly, the attackers didn’t just threaten adults; they allegedly intimidated women and children too, according to the Hindu Canadian Foundation.
The attack has caused an uproar, with statements and reactions pouring in from both countries. India’s High Commission in Canada denounced the event, calling it a “violent disruption orchestrated by anti-India elements.” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the violence, stating that every Canadian should be free to worship safely, no matter their faith. Trudeau thanked local police for their quick response but didn’t directly address the involvement of Khalistan supporters.
One Canadian lawmaker, Chandra Arya from Trudeau’s own Liberal Party, didn’t hold back. He blamed the attack on pro-Khalistan extremists and warned that “a red line has been crossed.” Arya also raised concerns over the growing influence of Khalistani supporters, suggesting they may have even infiltrated parts of Canada’s government and law enforcement. This statement has fueled debates, with some wondering if Canada’s stance on Khalistan has unintentionally opened doors to extremism.
Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, one of Trudeau’s biggest critics, also condemned the attack, calling it “completely unacceptable.”
This violent incident comes during a tense time in India-Canada relations. Recently, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats following allegations that Indian officials may have targeted Khalistan activists in Canada. India has denied these claims and accused Canada’s government of harboring extremists for political gain. Former Indian diplomat Sanjay Kumar Verma even claimed that some pro-Khalistan extremists in Canada could be working for Canadian intelligence, though he admitted he had no evidence.
Over the past year, India has voiced growing concerns over vandalism and attacks on Hindu temples in Canada. Just months ago, the Swaminarayan Mandir in Edmonton was defaced, followed by anti-India graffiti on a Hindu temple in Windsor, which sparked further outrage.
India claims it has sent over two dozen extradition requests to Canada for people linked to the Khalistan movement, who are wanted for serious crimes. However, it alleges that Canada hasn’t acted on these requests.
With tensions running high, this attack on the Hindu temple is another flashpoint in the escalating diplomatic and cultural friction between India and Canada.
