S Jaishankar Calls Brampton Temple Attack ‘Deeply Concerning’ Amid Rising India-Canada Tensions

Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar condemned the recent vandalism at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Temple by individuals displaying Khalistani flags, calling it “deeply concerning.” The incident, coinciding with strained India-Canada relations, included violent clashes where protestors used flagpoles as weapons. Indian officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, strongly denounced the attack, urging Canadian authorities to protect places of worship and uphold justice.

Indian authorities also reiterated their concern for Indian nationals’ safety in Canada. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that attempts to intimidate Indian diplomats would not weaken India’s resolve, urging Canada to ensure justice and enforce the rule of law. Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the incident, affirming citizens’ right to practice religion freely and securely.

#WATCH | Canberra, Australia: On the attack on Hindu temple in Canada, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar says, ” What happened yesterday at the Hindu temple in Canada was deeply concerning…you should have seen the statement by our official spokesperson and also the… pic.twitter.com/DvbeRmUb0u

— ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2024

Also Read: India Condemns Attack on Hindu Devotees in Canada, Highlights Rising Extremism Concerns

This attack in Canada mirrors a recent surge in similar incidents, including temple desecrations in Australia. The growing tensions have also raised concerns over the Canadian government’s approach toward managing Khalistani separatist activity on its soil, with Jaishankar noting that Indian diplomats were reportedly under Canadian surveillance.

These diplomatic challenges highlight the complexities in handling sectarian and extremist issues within Canada’s multicultural context​.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)