ottawa: Hindu organizations have reacted strongly to the violence and assault on devotees in the temple in Brampton, Canada. Hindu organizations have questioned the Justin Trudeau government in view of the increasing courage of Khalistanis and attacks on the Hindu community. The Canadian National Council of Hindus and the Hindu Federation have issued an official statement following the attack on the temple along with temple priests and groups fighting for Hindu rights. It has also been decided that politicians will no longer be allowed to visit the temple for political purposes. The Canadian National Council of Hindus and Hindu Federation have said in their statement that the attack on the temple in Brampton raises questions about the safety of Hindus. Incidents of violence by Khalistanis and attacks on Hindus are continuously coming to light. In such a situation, it is very important to investigate this incident and take action against the people involved in it. It has also been decided that political activities should not be allowed in temples.
Sikh organization also condemned
The Ontario Sikh and Gurdwara Council (OSGC) has condemned the Khalistani violence outside the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton, saying violence has no place. OSGC said in its statement, ‘The incident outside the temple is tragic. We call on local authorities to thoroughly investigate this incident. We make it clear that violence has no place in our society. We also encourage community leaders and members to come together, support each other, and create an environment of unity and compassion.
The Indian High Commission in Canada, reacting to the attack on the temple in Brampton, has said that the Indian High Commission has said, ‘We had set up a camp in collaboration with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton near Toronto on November 3. During this time, anti-India people reached here and committed violence. This kind of uproar in the routine work of the High Commission, which is going on with the cooperation of local organizers, is disappointing.
Trudeau and Poilievre also condemned
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and opposition leader Poilievre have condemned the incident. Justin Trudeau wrote on Twitter, ‘The incidents of violence at the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton are unacceptable. All Canadians have the right to practice their religion freely and safely.’ Canadian opposition leader Pierre Poilievre condemned the attack on the temple, saying every Canadian can practice his or her religion in peace. We condemn this attack.
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Dr. Anjali Verma, Expert on South Asian Affairs
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Verma. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent troubling events in Brampton, Canada, where Hindu devotees were violently attacked at their temple. This is a concerning situation for many in the community. Could you start by providing some context about the Hindu community’s relationship with the Canadian government?
Dr. Anjali Verma: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. The Hindu community in Canada, especially in regions like Brampton, has largely been peaceful and engaged in fostering multiculturalism. However, the rise of groups advocating for Khalistan has led to increased tensions, causing many in the Hindu diaspora to feel unsafe. Such incidents disrupt the harmonious coexistence that has been a hallmark of Canada’s multicultural identity.
Time.news Editor: Indeed, the recent statement from organizations like the Canadian National Council of Hindus and the Hindu Federation highlights their authorities’ growing concerns. They’ve questioned the government led by Justin Trudeau regarding the perceived rise in courage among Khalistani extremists. What do you think has led to this climate of fear?
Dr. Anjali Verma: Several factors contribute to this situation. First, there’s been a notable increase in political rhetoric around Khalistani nationalism, often using religious and cultural symbols that resonate with specific communities. Coupled with social media amplifying these narratives, we see a concerning emboldening of radical elements. The Hindu community is understandably worried, leading to a call for action from both local authorities and the federal government.
Time.news Editor: The decision made by Hindu organizations to prohibit political figures from visiting the temple for campaign purposes seems significant. What implications does this have for the intersection of politics and community activities?
Dr. Anjali Verma: This decision signals a shift in how religious spaces are perceived in political discourse. Temples are traditionally places of worship, but they have also become focal points for community gathering. By restricting political activities in these spaces, Hindu organizations are asserting their right to maintain a safe and sacred environment free from external political influence. It underscores a desire to keep devotional practices distinct from the often polarizing nature of politics.
Time.news Editor: There have been calls for an investigation into the violent incident and for accountability regarding the safety of Hindu devotees. Do you see a path forward for the community in advocating for their rights and seeking protection within Canadian society?
Dr. Anjali Verma: Absolutely. The call for investigations is crucial, as it emphasizes that communities have the right to feel safe and secure. This is where concerted advocacy can play a significant role. The Hindu community is increasingly vocal about their experiences and needs. By actively engaging with local and federal authorities, they can reinforce the importance of protecting all faith communities and fostering dialogue to address the root causes of such violence.
Time.news Editor: as an expert, how do you believe the broader Canadian society can respond to this situation in a way that promotes peace and understanding among diverse communities?
Dr. Anjali Verma: Education and awareness are pivotal. In order to mitigate tensions, Canadian society must foster dialogue and understanding among different ethnic and religious groups. This can include community-driven initiatives that promote multicultural events, educational workshops addressing cultural sensitivities, and convening interfaith dialogues. Government entities should also recognize and condemn acts of violence unequivocally, ensuring that all communities feel valued and protected.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Verma, for your insights today. The dialogue surrounding these issues is essential for promoting understanding and safety among all communities in Canada. We appreciate your expertise.
Dr. Anjali Verma: Thank you for the opportunity. It’s critical that we keep the conversation going to create a safer and more inclusive society.