'Highly concerned': Indian High Commission in Canada after violent attack on Hindu temple
PTC News Desk: The Indian High Commission in Canada condemned the "violent disruption" by 'anti-India' individuals outside a consular camp in Brampton and expressed concern for the safety of Indian nationals in the country.
The incident took place on Sunday (local time) outside a consular camp set up in collaboration with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, near Toronto.
The High Commission stated that any future events will be held "contingent on security arrangements" provided by local authorities.
"We have seen violent disruption today (Nov 3) orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organised with the Hindu Sabha Mandir, Brampton, near Toronto," the high commission's statement read.
TheThe statement also mentioned previous disruptions at consulate camps held in Vancouver and Surrey on November 2 and 3.
The Indian mission stated that it is "deeply disappointing" that such disruptions are "being allowed" for routine counsular work.
"It is deeply disappointing to see such disruptions being allowed for routine counsular work being organised by our consulated with the fullest cooperation of the local co-organizers. We also remain very concerned for the safetry of applicants, including Indian nationals, on whose demand such events are organized in the first place."
The High Commission further stated that, despite the disruption, over 1000 life certifications were issued to Indian and Canadian applicants.
"In light of these incidents and with the continued threats posed to the Indian diplomats and officials, local venue organised are well as local attendees, organization of further scheduled consular camps will be contingent on security arrangements made for them by local authorities," the statement added.
Following the attacks, the Hindu Canadian Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to the Hindu community in Canada, posted a video of the temple attack, claiming that Khalistani activists targeted children and women. "Kids, Women and Men are being attacked. This is all happening under the support of Khalistaani politician sympathizers," the post further read.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also spoke out against the attack. "The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely," he posted on X.
- With inputs from agencies
