Connecting Global Threads of Faith Newsletter # 1 April
- GHTN Admin
- Apr 15
- 3 min read
Editor’s Note
Across institutions and societies, from workplace inquiries in Nashik to judicial scrutiny of public expression, these developments reflect the subtle yet persistent negotiation of faith, dignity, and accountability…
April Newsletter – 1
(April 01 – April 15)
"In a connected world, Hindu struggles and resilience amid violence often remain unseen. This fortnightly report sheds light on these overlooked realities, offering a global overview of incidents affecting Hindus and celebrating our heritage, advocating for Hindu rights and religious freedom worldwide."
North America
United States of America
An American influencer’s video on the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple in Texas triggered online backlash, with comments targeting Hindu practices such as temple worship and rituals.
The episode reflects a wider trend of rising anti-Indian sentiment in parts of the US, where Hindu religious presence and Indian demographic growth are increasingly being linked to immigration debates.
Canada
Two major Hindu temples in Canada are in discussions with authorities over security arrangements after pro-Khalistan groups called for rallies outside their premises on Sunday.
The call for the “Khalistan Zindabad” rallies was issued by the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The locations identified include Triveni Mandir in Brampton, part of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, British Columbia.
Members of Sikhs for Justice staged protests outside Hindu temples in Brampton and Surrey, gathering with flags and slogans near places of worship.
The demonstrations followed the passage of Canada’s Bill C-9, an anti-hate measure aimed at restricting such activities around religious sites.
Asia
Bangladesh
Mob violence in Bangladesh led to the targeting and vandalism of Hindu homes and businesses in Rangpur, despite the community having no role in the triggering incident. The attacks come amid a wider pattern of rising communal violence, with over 130 such incidents reported in early 2026.
Hindu community leaders in Bangladesh urged PM Tarique Rahman to establish a minority commission and legal protections to address alleged discrimination and safeguard their rights.
Pakistan
In Faisalabad, historic sites including the Arya Samaj Temple Faisalabad, Sanatan Dharma Library, and colonial-era buildings are being demolished and replaced by commercial structures, sparking criticism over administrative negligence and illegal encroachments.
India
In the Tata Consultancy Services Nashik case, FIRs allege sexual harassment along with claims of religious coercion, including pressure on some employees to offer namaz, consume food against their beliefs, and attempts at forced religious conversion.Police have registered nine FIRs, made multiple arrests, and investigations are ongoing, while the company has suspended the accused employees pending inquiry.
The Allahabad High Court observed that claiming any religion as the “only true religion” in a secular country like India can disparage other faiths and may attract provisions under Section 295A IPC.
The court dismissed a plea against charges, holding that such statements could constitute a prima facie offence and should be examined during trial rather than at the initial stage.
'Religious faith beyond judicial review': Centre backs restriction on women's Sabarimala entry in SCThe Centre, represented by Tushar Mehta, told the Supreme Court of India that matters of religious faith, like restrictions on women’s entry at Sabarimala Temple should remain beyond judicial review.It argued that courts should not interfere in essential religious practices, emphasizing autonomy of faith over constitutional scrutiny.
The Delhi High Court termed tweets by Rana Ayyub as derogatory and communal, noting allegations that she demeaned Lord Ram, portrayed Ravan positively, disrespected Sita and Draupadi, and made derogatory remarks on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, directing authorities to act within 24 hours.
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