A park named after Bhagavad Gita vandalized in Canada, Indian condemns

New Delhi: Crossing another low-point in the souring relations between India and Canada, a recently unveiled park in Brampton area, named after Bhagavad Gita, was vandalised by unknown miscreants the other day.

The incident came over a week after India had issued an advisory for Indian nationals in Canada to be vigilant against "sharp increase in hate crimes and anti-India activities."

The High Commission of India was quick to issue a sharp response to the incident, calling up on Canadian authorities for action.

Shri Bhagavad Gita Park, previously called Troyers Park – was renamed after the spiritual text of Bhagavad Gita and unveiled on September 28.

"We condemn the hate crime at the Shri Bhagvad Gita Park in Brampton and urge Canadian authorities and Peel Regional Police to investigate and take prompt action against the perpetrators," the High Commission of India in Ottawa tweeted.

Mayor Patrick Brown acknowledged the incident, adding that "we have zero tolerance for this. We have flagged to Peel Regional Police for further investigation. Our Parks department is working to resolve and correct the sign as soon as possible"

Earlier while issuing advisory to Indian nationals, India said it had taken up hate crimes happening in the nation with authorities but no perpetrators of these crimes had been brought to justice in Canada.

At least two incidents of attacks on Hindu temples in the country have been reported so far in the nation. On September 15, a temple was defaced with anti-India graffiti.

Canada used to be one of the most favoured destinations for education and work for Indians, thus becoming home to 1.6 million people of Indian origin and non-resident Indians.