Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the recent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Ontario, by alleged Khalistani extremists. Modi’s response reflects growing concerns over the safety of Indian religious communities in Canada, especially amid heightened tensions following accusations of Indian involvement in domestic Canadian matters.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed his dismay at the violent incident and the intimidating tactics aimed at disrupting Indian diplomatic efforts in Canada. “Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” PM Modi stated on November 4.

The Peel Regional Police confirmed that protests took place outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir on November 3, with videos surfacing on social media showing demonstrators waving banners supporting Khalistan. These clips reveal scuffles between individuals holding poles, engaging in physical altercations on the temple premises. This attack on one of Canada’s prominent Hindu temples marks an alarming instance of aggression targeted at the Hindu community.

Canadian Leaders Denounce Attack

The violent acts at the Hindu temple have drawn widespread condemnation from Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He took to X on Monday, asserting, “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 acknowledged the prompt response from Peel Regional Police in stabilizing the situation and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Canadians of all faiths feel safe in their places of worship.

Brampton’s Mayor Patrick Brown joined the wave of condemnation, describing the violence as deeply troubling and stressing that religious freedom is central to Canada’s identity. “I am disappointed to hear about acts of violence outside of the Hindu Sabha. Religious freedom is a foundational value in Canada. Everyone should feel safe in their place of worship,” Brown wrote.

Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre also voiced his disapproval, stating, “Completely unacceptable to see violence targeting worshippers at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton. All Canadians should be free to practice their faith in peace.” His remarks emphasize the bipartisan support in Canada for safeguarding the rights of religious communities and ensuring that such incidents do not recur.

Peel Regional Police’s Response

Following the incident, Peel Regional Police increased their presence around the Hindu Sabha Mandir to prevent further violence. Chief Nishan Duraiappah released a statement underscoring the importance of peaceful protests and promising swift action against any criminal behavior. “We respect the right to protest in a peaceful and safe manner but will not tolerate violence and criminal acts,” Duraiappah noted, assuring that those involved in any illegal actions would face prosecution.

High Commission of India’s Statement

The High Commission of India in Ottawa also issued a strong response, condemning the “violent disruption” by anti-India elements outside a consular event co-hosted by the Hindu Sabha Mandir and the Indian consulate. Their statement highlighted the concerns over the safety of Indian nationals and applicants visiting the consulate, while acknowledging the consulate’s continued efforts to provide services despite the disturbances. In fact, over 1,000 life certificates were successfully issued to both Indian and Canadian citizens, reaffirming the consulate’s commitment to supporting Indian nationals abroad.

“We have seen violent disruption today (November 3), orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organised with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton,” the High Commission's statement read, echoing the concerns shared by Indian authorities over anti-India activities on Canadian soil.

Escalating India-Canada Tensions

The recent attack reflects mounting tensions in India-Canada relations, which have worsened since Prime Minister Trudeau suggested a “potential” link between India and the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year. India firmly rejected these accusations as “absurd”, emphasizing that Canada’s tolerance for Khalistani activism has created a significant obstacle to bilateral relations.

New Delhi continues to assert that the main challenge in the relationship is Canada’s stance on Khalistani groups, which operate from Canada with what India perceives as a lack of accountability. The Hindu Sabha Mandir attack has only intensified India’s insistence that Canadian authorities take stronger actions to control the influence of anti-India elements within its borders.

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