Pierre Poilievre, the Canadian opposition leader, has strongly condemned the recent attack on the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton. He described the violence as “completely unacceptable.” Moreover, he emphasized that every Canadian should have the right to practice their faith peacefully. He asserted that the Conservative Party unequivocally condemns this attack and pledged to unite Canadians to end the chaos.
In a post on X, Poilievre stated, “Completely unacceptable to see violence targeting worshippers at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today. All Canadians should be free to practice their faith in peace. Conservatives condemn this violence unequivocally. I will unite our people and end the chaos.”
MP Kevin Vuong Criticizes Canada’s Tolerance of Extremism
In addition to Poilievre, Toronto MP Kevin Vuong also condemned the attack. He pointed out that “Canada has become a safe harbour for radicals.” Vuong criticized Canadian leaders for failing to protect Hindus, just as they have neglected to safeguard Christians and Jews. He expressed his concerns on X, declaring, “Alarming to see an attack on Hindu Canadians. From Khalistani extremists to terrorist cosplayers, Canada has become a safe harbour for radicals. Our leaders are failing to safeguard Hindus as they have Christians and Jewish Canadians from violence. We all deserve to worship in peace.”
Hindu Canadian Foundation Responds to the Incident
The Hindu Canadian Foundation reacted swiftly to the attack by sharing a video of the incident. They reported that Khalistani terrorists targeted children and women during the violence. In their post on X, they expressed deep concern over political support for Khalistani sympathizers. They wrote, “Hindu Sabha Temple is under attack by #KhalistaniTerrorists #khalistan. Kids, Women and Men are being attacked. This is all happening under the support of Khalistani politician sympathizers.”
MP Chandra Arya Warns of Rising Extremism
Meanwhile, Canadian MP Chandra Arya also condemned the attack, calling it a significant escalation of violence by Khalistani extremists in Canada. He shared a video of the incident on X, stating, “A red line has been crossed by Canadian Khalistani extremists today. The attack by Khalistanis on the Hindu-Canadian devotees inside the premises of the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton shows how deep and brazen Khalistani violent extremism has become in Canada.”
Furthermore, he raised concerns that extremists might have infiltrated law enforcement agencies, which enables their bold actions. He remarked, “No wonder that under the ‘freedom of expression’ Khalistani extremists are getting a free pass in Canada. As I have been saying for long, Hindu-Canadians, for the security and safety of our community, need to step up and assert their rights and hold politicians accountable.”
Documented Pattern of Religious Attacks in Canada
This recent attack is part of a disturbing trend of religious intolerance in Canada. For example, Arya highlighted increased anti-Hindu violence following the vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Edmonton in July. Additionally, Hindu temples across the Greater Toronto Area, British Columbia, and other regions have faced similar attacks. Last year, a Hindu temple in Windsor was defaced with anti-India graffiti, prompting widespread condemnation from both Canadian and Indian officials.
Calls for Action Against Religious Intolerance
Given these incidents, there is an urgent need for action against religious intolerance in Canada. Canadian leaders must address these violent acts and ensure the safety of all citizens, regardless of their faith. In light of these challenges, it is essential for communities to come together and advocate for a peaceful and respectful environment for all.
A Unified Response Required
In conclusion, the growing incidents of violence against religious groups highlight a crucial moment for Canadian society. To foster peace and safety, it is imperative that leaders respond decisively and that all Canadians stand together in solidarity against extremism.