The alleged attack on devotees at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton by the youth holding Khalistani flags has again triggered a controversy, with India already accusing Canada of giving a free run to separatists and extremists.
Several videos purportedly showing violence inside the temple have gone viral on social media and invited sharp reactions from top Canadian politicians, including the PM, opposition parties and Hindu organisations.
“The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practise their faith freely and safely,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on his X handle.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, who is also running for the PM’s post in Canada, wrote on X, “Completely unacceptable to see violence targeting worshippers at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today. All Canadians should be free to practise their faith in peace. Conservatives condemn this violence unequivocally. I will unite our people and end the chaos.”
Initially two groups, one holding Khalistani flags and another with Indian flags, had heated arguments at the main entrance of the temple as officers of the Peel Regional Police prevented them from reaching near each other.
Unidentified persons with Khalistani flags raised slogans for Khalistan while another group with Indian flags raised ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ slogans. Things turned worse when some alleged pro-Khalistan supporters entered the main gate of the temple and attacked some devotees in the car parking area.
Leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party Jagmeet Singh said, “Every Canadian must be free to visit their place of worship in peace. I unequivocally condemn the acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir. Violence anywhere is wrong. I join community leaders in calling for peace. “
The Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF) alleged that the temple was under attack by Khalistani terrorists. “Kids, women and men are being attacked. This is all happening under the support of Khalistani politician sympathisers,” said the HCF.
But till the filing of this report, no group of Khalistanis claimed responsibility for the clash.
Ontario Sikhs and Gurdwara Council (OSGC), in a statement, has condemned the violence outside the temple, saying, “Intimidation has no place in the community, and peace, unity and mutual respect are the values we uphold.”
The OSGC has also demanded a thorough investigation into the incident.
PM Trudeau thanked the Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigating the incident.
Peel Regional Police authorities said the acts of violence, threats of violence or vandalism would be investigated.
“We have increased police presence to monitor and respond to any unlawful activity,” said the authorities in their official statement
