India has condemned the acts of violence “perpetrated by extremists and separatists” at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario on Sunday and has asked Canada to ensure protection of all places of worship in the country.
“We call on the Government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks. We also expect that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted. We remain deeply concerned about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada,” said Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, in response to media queries on violence in Brampton, Canada.
On Sunday, protesters carrying Khalistani flags clashed with attendees at the Hindu Sabha Temple following which Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the violence. “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. Thank you to the Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident,” Trudeau tweeted.
The Indian High Commission in Canada said that a consular camp in Brampton, near Toronto, witnessed “violent disruptions” on Sunday. “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. It is deeply disappointing to see such disruptions being allowed for routine consular work being organised by our consulates with the fullest cooperation of 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,” it said in a press release issued on Sunday.
Political tensions
The clashes took place amidst rising political tensions between between Canada and India over ongoing investigations in in Canada on the killing of Canadian Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and the alleged involvement of Indian officials and politicians. Last month, Canada and India expelled six diplomats each.
Despite the clashes in Brampton, the Indian Consulate was able to issue more than 1,000 life certificates to the Indian and Canadian applicants, the statement added.
“The outreach of our Consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment and violence.,” Jaiswal said.
