This after the British Columbia Supreme Court imposed a buffer zone around the Gurdwara to prevent clashes amid growing tensions between Canada and India over allegations linking Indian government officials to the achievement of an assassination within Canadian borders.

Judge Miriam Gropper made the order on Thursday, establishing a 60-metre buffer zone around the Ross Street Gurdwara from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on November 2 and 16. The injunction prohibits protesters from interfering, intimidating or obstructing people accessing the temple.

The move comes as temple leaders anticipate intense protests over the Indian consular presence, driven by concerns that Indian officials may have been complicit in recent violence in Canada.

Consular camps under surveillance

Consular camps, held annually, allow seniors of Indian origin to carry out administrative tasks related to Indian government services, such as pensions, without going to the consulate.

The Khalsa Diwan Society, which owns the temple, has sought court intervention to prevent disruption, citing the current “intense climate” between pro-Khalistani supporters and the Indian government.

Scott Turner, lawyer for the Ross Street Gurdwara leaders, said: “We believe it is inappropriate to disrupt people’s access to essential consular services. »

Demonstrations linked to diplomatic tensions

The injunction follows calls from Surrey’s Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara for the closure of Indian consulates in Canada after the expulsion of six Indian diplomats due to alleged criminal activities.

Canadian authorities have linked the Indian government to an assassination plot against individuals involved in the Khalistan movement, which seeks an independent Sikh homeland.

India has denied any involvement, including charges linked to the 2023 murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, head of the Surrey gurdwara.

Recent protests and police involvement

Court documents reveal that last year’s consular events saw around 100 protesters gather outside the gurdwara, blocking entrances and engaging in heated demonstrations.

Vancouver police used a “decoy plan” to escort consulate staff through a side door, even allowing protesters inside the gurdwara to verify that staff had left, ultimately defusing the protest.

With the Ross Street Gurdwara expecting large gatherings for the upcoming Diwali celebrations, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) has confirmed it will deploy additional resources to maintain order.

VPD Sergeant Steve Addison emphasized the department’s support for legal public gatherings, noting that plans are in place to handle any potential demonstrations. Although specific details of the police response were not released, Addison said, “Our operations and emergency planning section is working with temple leadership to address specific concerns. »