India Canada Relations: The recent attack on a Hindu temple in Canada has intensified India-Canada relations, raising fresh concerns over extremism. Pro-Khalistani supporters allegedly confronted Hindu devotees outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Ontario. The incident, which was captured on video and circulated online, shows worshippers facing violent assaults as pro-Khalistan flags waved nearby.
India Condemns the Attack, Requests Stronger Security from Canada
India has strongly condemned the attack, stressing the need for robust security at Hindu places of worship in Canada. Following the incident, the Indian consulate in Toronto issued a statement expressing outrage. It noted that Indian officials had previously requested heightened security for the temple event, but the protections put in place were clearly insufficient.
“We have seen violent disruption today, orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organized with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton,” the statement read. The Indian consulate emphasized that Canadian authorities had been notified about the security concerns beforehand, yet the response fell short.
Hindu Canadian Foundation Responds
The Hindu Canadian Foundation, a community-based non-profit, expressed its dismay over the incident, pointing out that women and children were among those present during the attack. The organization warned that, without proper action, this event might only signal the beginning of increased hostility toward the Hindu community in Canada.
Chandra Arya, a Canadian lawmaker and member of Prime Minister Trudeau’s Liberal Party, echoed these sentiments. “A red line has been crossed by Canadian Khalistani extremists today,” Arya shared on X. He stressed that Hindu-Canadian worshippers now face real threats, even within their sacred spaces. Arya went on to question if Khalistani supporters have gained notable influence within Canada’s political and law enforcement systems, potentially allowing extremists a free pass.
Prime Minister Trudeau Condemns the Incident as “Unacceptable”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also spoke out against the attack, calling it an “unacceptable” act of violence that infringes on Canadians’ rights to worship safely. Trudeau commended the Peel Regional Police for their rapid response and promised a thorough investigation to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
“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,” Trudeau posted on X. This statement reinforced the government’s position against hate-based incidents targeting specific communities.
Standoff with Indian Government Fueling Extremist Confidence?
The strained relations between India and Canada have seemingly empowered pro-Khalistani extremists. Tensions escalated dramatically after Canadian authorities alleged that India played a role in the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has consistently denied these claims, demanding concrete evidence to support the accusations. This diplomatic row led to both countries expelling each other’s top diplomats, marking a historic low in India-Canada relations.
Many believe the current Canadian government has been lenient toward Khalistani activities, and this perceived support has emboldened extremist factions. With India-Canada relations in steady decline, some worry that Khalistani elements may only grow bolder
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