BRAMPTON, ON — Peel Regional Police say three people have been arrested and charged after violence broke out Sunday while Indian consular officials visited a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ont.

Social media posts over the weekend appeared to show protesters holding banners in support of a separate Sikh country called Khalistan, clashing with others, including some waving the Indian national flag.

The videos appeared to show fist fights and people hitting each other with sticks in what appeared to be the compound surrounding the Hindu temple Sabha Mandir.

Police say protesters then moved to two different locations in Mississauga, Ontario, and a police officer was slightly injured while arresting a person during the protests.

Police said they were investigating “several illegal acts” related to the protests and did not immediately provide details on suspects or charges.

This violence, which occurred during a tense period in relations between Canada and India, drew condemnation from the Indian High Commission, the Prime Minister and the leaders of other major federal parties.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published November 4, 2024.

The Canadian Press