Hindu community demands action against Khalistani extremism and enhanced security after attacks on temples.
New Delhi: Horrified and outraged by the recent violent attacks carried out by Khalistani extremists targeting Hindu temples in Brampton, Ontario, Surrey and British Columbia, the Hindu community in Canada demands enhanced security at Hindu temples and community events along with condemnation of such extremism. In recent weeks, several cities in Canada have become the epicentre of a disturbing series of attacks on Hindu temples. These attacks, which include vandalism, defacement, and violent protests have sent shockwaves throughout the local and global Hindu communities. They have also brought the issue of Khalistani extremism, supported and aided by the Canadian government into focus.
“Canadian Khalistani extremists, motivated by a radical ideology that advocates for violence and division, are directly responsible for these attacks. Their actions violate not only the rights of the Hindu community to freely practice and express their faith, but also the core human rights principles enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Religious freedom, security, and the right to live without fear of violence are basic human rights that must be protected”, said a Hindu forum based in Canada.
“The recent attacks on our temples are an attempt to undermine these rights and disturb the peace of Canada’s diverse communities”, they added.
Amidst these attacks, the Hindu community is demanding a strong public and political condemnation of Canadian Khalistani extremism, enhanced security at Hindu temples and community events, a comprehensive investigation into Khalistani extremist activities, and solidarity against hate and extremism.
“These attacks by Canadian Khalistani extremists are not isolated incidents, but part of a broader effort to undermine the very values that underpin our nation. We stand firm in defending these rights and to ensuring that our places of worship are safe and protected,” as the forum said.
Earlier also, several Hindu forums highlighted the multiple attacks on Hindu temples across Canada during the Diwali weekend and called for an end to “Hinduphobia” in the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi too, strongly condemned the “deliberate attack” and said that “cowardly attempts to intimidate” Indian diplomats were appalling. New Delhi expects Canadian authorities to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.
In the last few years, several violent Khalistani activities have been reported in Canada and many a times, they have attacked Hindus while Canada has failed to take action. India has repeatedly expressed deep concern about extremism, violence and anti-India activities in Canada, calling for action against to tackle them.