Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the recent violence at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, calling it an attack on religious freedom and “unacceptable.” Heavy police presence was observed at the temple after altercations, with some leaders attributing the violence to pro-Khalistan Sikh activists. Viral videos captured individuals breaching the temple gates and attacking worshippers within the complex.
Peel Regional Police confirmed that no arrests had been made and refrained from assigning responsibility for the incident. Canadian MP Chandra Arya highlighted the “deep and brazen” nature of violent extremism in Canada, urging the Hindu-Canadian community to advocate for their rights and hold politicians accountable. Arya also alleged that extremist elements have infiltrated Canada’s political and law enforcement sectors.
Khalistani Sikhs attacking worshippers at Brampton Hindu temple.
Nothing to worry about though because DIVERSITY IS OUR STRENGTH!!! pic.twitter.com/pstG69d2DB
— Maxime Bernier (@MaximeBernier) November 3, 2024
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown called for severe legal action against those responsible, emphasizing that religious freedom is a core Canadian value. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre and Toronto MP Kevin Vuong also voiced concerns, with Vuong noting that Canada has become a “safe harbour for radicals.”
The attack occurred amid heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. Canada recently labeled India a cyber adversary, alleging that Indian state-sponsored actors have engaged in espionage. This follows accusations from Canada that India was involved in the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Khalistan advocate.
The Hindu Sabha Temple incident is one of several targeting Hindu places of worship in Canada, with previous incidents of vandalism reported in Windsor, Mississauga, and Brampton, which sparked strong responses from the Indian diaspora and calls for action from both Canadian and Indian officials.