Khalistani temple attacks: Four arrested, officer suspended amid Canadian Hindu protests

Brampton: A recent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton prompted over a thousand Canadian Hindus to gather outside the temple on Monday evening, protesting against a rise in violence against Hindu places of worship by Khalistani extremists. The attack on the temple, which occurred just a day prior, was part of a broader wave of incidents targeting Hindu temples across Canada, especially during the Diwali weekend.

The rally organizers pressed Canadian political leaders and law enforcement to take stronger steps against these attacks and avoid supporting Khalistani groups. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) highlighted the issue on social media platform X, calling the incidents "Hinduphobia" and tagging key leaders to take immediate action. “Over a thousand #CanadianHindus have gathered in Brampton to protest against the increasingly brazen attacks on Hindu Temples,” CoHNA posted, underscoring the widespread concern.

This gathering follows Sunday’s violent disruption at an Indian consular camp held at the Hindu Sabha Mandir. The Hindu Canadian Foundation shared video footage showing extremists reportedly targeting women and children.

Peel Regional Police confirmed the arrests of three suspects in connection with the attack: 42-year-old Dilpreet Singh Bouns and 31-year-old Amritpal Singh, both from Mississauga, and a 23-year-old Brampton resident identified only as Vikas. A fourth individual, who was not identified, was arrested on an unrelated outstanding warrant and subsequently released.

Police also reported that an off-duty officer from the Peel force was seen in a video participating in a pro-Khalistani demonstration related to the unrest. The officer has been suspended pending an investigation. “We are aware of a video circulating on social media that shows an off-duty Peel Police officer involved in a demonstration. This officer has since been suspended per the Community Safety and Policing Act,” Peel Police stated on Monday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attacks, calling them “deliberate” acts of intimidation against Indian diplomats, and urged Canada to ensure justice and uphold safety measures. "Such acts of violence will never weaken India's resolve," Modi posted on X.

In a similar call for protection, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern for Indian nationals’ safety in Canada and appealed for strict measures to secure places of worship. The Indian High Commission echoed this sentiment, adding that future events would require added security.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also responded, condemning the violence and affirming every Canadian’s right to practice their faith safely. “The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable,” Trudeau posted on X, thanking Peel Regional Police for their swift response.

This incident adds to recent diplomatic strain between India and Canada. Last month, Ottawa accused India’s Home Minister Amit Shah of targeting Sikh activists, a claim the Indian government rejected. Trudeau previously alleged "credible evidence" linking the Indian government to the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia last year.

With IANS inputs