Canadian police have arrested 35-year-old Inderjeet Gosal in connection with last week’s violent altercation at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Ontario. Gosal, reportedly a coordinator for the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) group, was detained by Peel Regional Police (PRP) but later released under specific conditions, with a court appearance scheduled in Brampton.
The incident occurred on November 3, during a demonstration outside the temple that quickly escalated from displaying Khalistani banners and flags to physical assaults on Hindu-Canadian devotees. The PRP issued a statement highlighting the sudden escalation of violence during the protest.
Inderjeet Gosal, a central figure in the incident, has been identified as the Canadian organizer for SFJ, an organization banned in India. He assumed this role following the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot in British Columbia earlier this year. Gosal is considered close to SFJ’s general counsel, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who is designated as a terrorist by India.
Gosal’s background suggests a deep commitment to the Khalistan cause, including previous statements expressing his willingness to risk his life for the establishment of a Sikh homeland in Punjab. He has also been one of 13 Canadian citizens allegedly targeted by pro-Khalistan opponents, with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police issuing a “duty to warn” notice for his safety.
In response to the attack, Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, condemned the violence. MP Chandra Arya added that the incident highlights a failure to protect the Hindu community. Meanwhile, the Indian High Commission in Canada strongly denounced the disruption, attributing it to anti-India groups and expressing concern over security at consular sites.
The recent altercation at the Hindu Sabha Mandir further strains diplomatic relations between Canada and India, which have already faced tension over Khalistan activism within Canada.