NEW DELHI: India has strongly condemned the recent violence at a Hindu temple in Brampton, Canada, where pro-Khalistan separatists targeted a community event. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his outrage, calling for swift action against the perpetrators and reaffirming that such acts would not weaken India’s resolve.
“I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” Modi stated on X.
The attack took place on Sunday at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, where a consular camp had been set up in collaboration with the temple to assist local residents with life certificate applications. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern about the safety of Indian nationals in Canada and urged the Canadian government to take necessary measures to protect all places of worship from such attacks.
New Delhi has consistently raised concerns about the growing influence of pro-Khalistan groups in Canada, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Ottawa. The Indian government has emphasized that allowing such elements to operate freely undermines the security of Indian interests and the Indian diaspora in Canada.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the attack, asserting on X that “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. Thank you to Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident.”
Video of Police Response Draws Comparisons to George Floyd Incident
As disturbing videos of the attack circulated on social media, one particular video showed a police officer pinning down and handcuffing a Hindu youth, which drew immediate comparisons to the 2020 George Floyd incident in the United States. This incident sparked outrage, with Canadian MP Chandra Arya expressing concern that Khalistani activists might be influencing law enforcement. Arya described the treatment of the youth as “aggressive” and noted that the actions of Brampton police toward the Hindu protesters were deeply troubling.
“The way police responded to the protests raised suspicions of Khalistani infiltration within law enforcement. This is a red line crossed by extremists, targeting Hindu devotees in Canada,” Arya said.
Indian Government Reaffirms Commitment to Consular Outreach
In a statement, the Indian government reiterated its commitment to continuing consular services despite the threats and violence. “We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. “We call on the government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks, and that those responsible for the violence are prosecuted.”
Despite the disruption, the Indian consulate was able to process over 1,000 life certificates for Indian nationals and Canadian citizens. The Indian High Commission expressed disappointment that such incidents were allowed to disrupt consular work, which had been organized with full cooperation from local partners.
“We remain concerned for the safety of applicants, including Indian nationals, whose demands led to the organization of such events. However, despite these challenges posed by anti-India elements, our consulate successfully issued more than 1,000 life certificates,” the High Commission stated.
India’s Broader Concern with Attacks on Hindus Abroad
This incident marks the second time in recent months that Prime Minister Modi has raised concerns about the safety of Hindus abroad. Earlier in August, Modi expressed concerns to Bangladesh’s Muhammad Yunus about the targeting of Hindus and other minorities following the regime change in the country.
The Indian government’s position remains firm that such acts of violence—whether directed at religious institutions or diplomatic staff—will not deter India’s diplomatic efforts and will continue to push for justice for those affected.
