Hindu temples and places of worship in Canada are increasingly facing targeted threats from radical elements, particularly Khalistan extremist groups.

As incidents of extremism increase across Canada under the administration of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Hindu temples and places of worship are increasingly facing targeted threats from radical elements, particularly Khalistan extremist groups. This disturbing trend has alarmed the Hindu community, particularly in areas densely populated with residents of Indian origin, such as Brampton, Ontario. The situation has prompted Canadian and Indian officials to call for urgent security measures to protect these religious institutions.

Brampton Temple cancels event due to ‘extremely high’ threat level

In a recent and significant incident, the Triveni Mandir and community center in Brampton had to cancel a planned event due to serious security concerns. This consular camp, called the “Life Certificate” event, was initially scheduled for November 17. Organized by the Indian Consulate, the event aimed to help people of Indian origin renew essential life certificates required for various administrative procedures in India.

However, an official statement from the temple explains: “Please note that the life certificate event scheduled at Brampton Triveni Mandir by the Indian Consulate on November 17, 2024 has been canceled. This is due to official intelligence from Peel Regional Police that there is an extremely high and imminent threat level of violent protests.

These consular camps are usually routine events, coordinated by Indian diplomatic missions in Canada to assist the Indian community with vital documents. However, rising tensions and the threat of violence have disrupted these services, highlighting a deterioration in the security situation.

Public apologies and community concerns about safety

After the cancellation, temple authorities issued a public apology to those who had planned to attend, highlighting the impact of rising extremism on public safety. “We apologize to everyone in the community who depended on the event. We are deeply saddened that Canadians now do not feel safe coming to Hindu temples in Canada,” the statement read. The temple administration also called on local law enforcement to take immediate action, urging Peel police to respond to the threats and ensure the safety of Canada’s Hindu community.

Previous incidents and growing security concerns

The cancellation marks the third major threat incident affecting Hindu temples in Canada this month alone. Earlier in November, another temple in Brampton was attacked, drawing swift condemnation from the Indian government. Following the incident, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs expressed disappointment over the escalating threats, emphasizing the need for effective measures to protect these places of worship.

Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said: “We also hope that those who indulge in such violence will be prosecuted. » The Indian High Commission in Canada had previously requested security support from Canadian authorities, fearing for the safety of Indian nationals. However, despite these requests, threats persist and consular services have been repeatedly hit by security issues.

Calls for greater protection following series of incidents

In recent months, Hindu temples across Ontario have been subject to vandalism and targeted violence. These incidents include the defacement of a temple in Windsor last year, which drew strong reactions from Canadian and Indian officials. Following the latest attacks, the Indian High Commission has reiterated its concerns over the lack of security guarantees at consular camps, which play a crucial role in meeting the administrative needs of the Indian community, particularly during the months of November. and December, when document renewal is at its peak.

A spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained: “This consular camp that we are organizing is useful to the community, both to people of Indian nationality and to people of Indian origin who can now be nationals of other country. » Recent cancellations have impacted many residents of Indian origin who rely on these camps to maintain their retirement benefits and meet other administrative needs.

Condemnation of violent incidents by Prime Minister Modi

The escalation of the situation also prompted a reaction from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He strongly condemned the recent attack, saying: “I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to guarantee justice and uphold the rule of law.