In a powerful statement delivered to the House of Commons, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the recent violent attacks that occurred at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Ontario, on Sunday, November 3. The attack, which targeted Hindu-Canadian devotees, has sparked significant concern and outrage within the community, with reports indicating that individuals linked to Khalistani separatist groups were responsible.
Trudeau was clear in his condemnation of those inciting violence and division, emphasizing that the Sikh and Hindu communities in Canada should not be held accountable for these actions. “The violence we have seen in South Asian communities across the country over the past few nights, let me be very clear. The individuals who are inciting violence and division and hatred in no way represent either the Sikh community or the Hindu community in Canada,” he stated.
The attack at the Hindu Sabha Mandir has raised alarms, especially after reports emerged that women and children were targeted during the violence. This incident is just the latest in a series of escalating tensions involving pro-Khalistani groups in Canada, who have been increasingly vocal in their support for an independent Sikh state. However, Prime Minister Trudeau was adamant that the violence was not representative of the broader Sikh or Hindu communities, both of which have a long history of peaceful coexistence in Canada.
In response to the growing unrest, the Indian High Commission in Canada also issued a strong condemnation of the attacks and disruptions caused by “anti-India” elements. A statement released by the High Commission decried the disruption at the Hindu Sabha Mandir. “We have seen violent disruption today (Nov 3) orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organised with the Hindu Sabha Mandir, Brampton, near Toronto,” the statement read. “It is deeply disappointing to see such disruptions being allowed for routine consular work being organised by our consulate with the fullest cooperation of the local co-organisers. We also remain very concerned for the safety of applicants, including Indian nationals, on whose demand such events are organised in the first place,” the Indian High Commission added.
Trudeau reaffirmed his commitment to the unity of Canada’s diverse multicultural society, highlighting that Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas, celebrated by Hindus and Sikhs alike, should be a time of togetherness and shared values. “At the time of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas, we are seeing communities come together to celebrate their diversity and strength; we will continue to stand for the unity of Canadians,” Trudeau said. His message aimed to quell the growing division in the aftermath of the violence, with both the Sikh and Hindu communities expressing solidarity against the extremism that has marred the peaceful celebrations of their faiths.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the rise of extremism within Canada and the potential for further violence. As the investigation into the attack continues, calls for a stronger response from Canadian authorities are growing louder, with many demanding action to address the underlying issues fueling these tensions and ensure the safety of all communities.
