Canadian police on Monday arrested three individuals who were protesting the attack by pro-Khalistani elements at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Canada, news agency ANI reported.

The demonstration was organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) to express solidarity and protest against “Khalistani intimidation” and “anti-Hindu” hatred. Protests were also sparked at the Brampton Temple and the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Surrey.

Peel Regional Police, in a statement, said the individuals were arrested on criminal charges and “subsequently” transferred to two different locations in the City of Mississauga. Police also said the charges would be investigated by the 21st Division Criminal Investigation Bureau and the 12th Division Criminal Investigation Bureau.

“Earlier today, Peel Regional Police were present at a protest held at a place of worship in Brampton. The event was then moved to two different locations in the City of Mississauga. Following these protests, three individuals were arrested and criminally charged for their actions. Several illegal acts continue to be actively investigated by our 21st Division Criminal Investigation Bureau as well as the 12th Division Criminal Investigation Bureau,” the police statement said.

India condemns attack

Following the attack, the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern over the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada and called on the Canadian government to prosecute those involved in the attack.

“We condemn the acts of violence carried out yesterday by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario. We call on the Government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected against such attacks. We also hope that those who indulge in violence will be prosecuted,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement.

(With ANI entries)