North News
New Delhi, November 5
External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the attack on the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton of Ontario, during a joint press conference in Canberra with Australia’s Foreign Minister. He emphasized that “what happened yesterday at the Hindu temple in Canada was obviously deeply concerning” and pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs had already reacted, signaling the depth of their concern. Dr. Jaishankar criticized Canada’s alleged pattern of making accusations without specifics and denounced the surveillance of Indian diplomats, calling it “unacceptable.” He also accused Canada of giving “political space” to extremist forces.
Prime Minister Modi strongly condemned the attack, describing it as deliberate and appalling. “Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” Modi stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The Ministry of External Affairs called on Canada to take swift action to protect religious sites and bring those responsible to justice. “We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, urging robust protection for places of worship and the prosecution of perpetrators.
Concerns have grown over the increasing number of violent incidents involving Hindu temples in Canada, particularly linked to pro-Khalistan groups. On November 3, armed individuals attacked worshippers outside the Brampton temple, mirroring a similar incident in Surrey. Canadian MP Chandra Arya called the Brampton attack a significant escalation, stating, “A red line has been crossed by Canadian Khalistani extremists.” He expressed alarm over potential infiltration by extremist groups into Canadian institutions, including politics and law enforcement.
The High Commission of India in Ottawa voiced dismay over disruptions during a consular camp near Toronto, where anti-India elements interfered with the issuance of over 1,000 life certificates to applicants. A video by journalist Daniel Bordman showed Peel Police using force against attendees, including those holding Indian flags, following clashes between Khalistani supporters and the Hindu community.
The Brampton Triveni Mandir released a statement urging vigilance amid ongoing threats, emphasizing coordination with police and community leaders to maintain safety. Meanwhile, the Ontario Sikhs and Gurdwara Council (OSGC) condemned the violence, advocating for peace and mutual respect.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu criticized Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, attributing rising tensions to his leadership and warning of potential consequences. He accused pro-Khalistan groups of disrupting religious peace during festivals and noted possible outside influences in the promotion of separatist slogans.
