Global Hindu Temple Network-America
Shared information, Shared awareness, Shared consciousness, Collective action
The Global Hindu Temple Network condemns the violent attacks against Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton and Lakshminarayan Mandir in Surrey in Canada. Unfortunately, such attacks, intimidation of Hindus, and biased treatment by police and authorities in Canada is recurring with unacceptable regularity. Lack of action by authorities is an indicator of dysfunctionality of Canadian rule of law.
Hindu lives and properties, especially temples, have been targeted with pro-Khalistani slogans and anti-Hindu and anti-Indian slurs. In September 2022, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir was targeted. In February 2023, the Ram Mandir in Mississauga, Ontario, was vandalized with pro-Khalistani slogans and anti-Hindu slurs. In 2023 alone there were more than twenty reported cases of temple vandalism and desecration.
Traditional Deepavali festival on Parliament Hill was abruptly cancelled by Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Opposition in Canadian Parliament. Even though the violence on 3rd November by the Khalistani mobs was condemned by a few politicians, none of them dared to call out the Khalistani attackers. This is a proof, if one was needed for what has been so evident for several years, of how deep has the influence of extremism penetrated in the Canadian politics and society.
Brazen and unprovoked attacks have occurred on Hindu devotees within temple premises. The Canadian government's indifference to these issues and engagement with Khalistani extremists have raised concerns about Hindu safety and well-being. Police protection has been assured, but concerns remain about the effectiveness of these measures and neutrality of the police.
Most Sikhs around the world are not pro-Khalistan and deep social and personal relationships have existed between Hindus and Sikhs for five centuries. Violence and extremism of Khalistanis, often fueled by crime, is detrimental to the honor and prestige of Sikhs and all Canadians.
Hindus in Canada are not alone. Hindus around the world stand with them in solidarity. A Civil Rights case should be filed against the police force in Surrey and Brampton for use of excessive force and “carotid restraint” chokehold on a Hindu teenager. They need to organize, collaborate and raise their voice in a coordinated and democratic manner, take measures to protect their Mandirs and the community.
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