Brampton Mandir cancels event due to khalistani threat in Canada

The Brampton Triveni Community Centre in Canada canceled a planned life certificate event by the Indian Consulate on Sunday, citing “extremely high and imminent” threats of violent protests. Scheduled for November 17, the event was meant to assist Indian-origin Hindus and Sikhs with renewing vital certificates. However, Peel Regional Police intelligence revealed a heightened threat level, prompting the cancellation.

In a statement, the community centre expressed disappointment, emphasizing that safety concerns now deter Canadians from visiting Hindu temples. They urged Peel Police to investigate the threats and provide security for the Hindu community and the broader public. The Brampton Triveni Mandir serves as a vital spiritual hub, hosting religious gatherings like Puja, Kirtan, and Sewa.

Tensions around Hindu temples in Canada have escalated recently. On November 3, a similar consular event at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Temple was disrupted by pro-Khalistani protesters. Videos of the incident showed violent clashes, with demonstrators using poles and flags to assault attendees. Peel Regional Police responded to the escalating violence, later describing the protests as physical and aggressive. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the violence, reaffirming that Canadians have the right to practice their faith safely.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condemned the attack, urging Canada to take firm action against intimidation of Indian diplomats. He described the assaults as deliberate and unacceptable, underscoring India’s stance on safeguarding its citizens abroad. Trudeau and Modi’s statements reflected the ongoing strain in Canada-India relations, worsened by prior diplomatic tensions over the Khalistani movement.

On November 8, Canadian police arrested Inderjeet Gosal, a 35-year-old Brampton resident and local coordinator for the banned group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The arrest followed video evidence of Gosal allegedly assaulting attendees during the November 3 protest. Police charged him with assault with a weapon, and he is set to appear in court in Brampton.

The Ministry of External Affairs in India reiterated its concerns over Indian nationals’ safety in Canada, calling for a thorough investigation. New Delhi has urged Canada to take stronger measures against pro-Khalistani elements, which it argues operate unchecked in Canada. The recent incidents highlight ongoing tensions over Canada’s approach to Khalistani activists within its borders.