In response to a recent attack by pro-Khalistan supporters on the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Canada, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann publicly condemned the incident on November 3, 2024. Addressing a press conference in Bathinda, Mann expressed dismay over the violence, calling for peaceful coexistence and urging the Indian government to engage diplomatically with Canada to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Chief Minister Mann’s Reaction to the Incident
Describing the attack as “deplorable,” Chief Minister Mann stated, “What happened in Canada in recent days is condemnable. Punjabis consider Canada a second home. No one wants such violent events to occur. I condemn this act.” The Chief Minister appealed to the Indian government to initiate talks with Canada, stressing the importance of prompt action to curb such incidents in the future.
ਅਹਿਮ ਮੁੱਦੇ ‘ਤੇ ਪ੍ਰੈੱਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ, ਬਠਿੰਡਾ ਤੋਂ Live https://t.co/dXpgmlJ1lb
— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) November 5, 2024
Appeal for Dialogue and Unity
In his remarks, Mann emphasized the values of peace and unity cherished by Punjabis worldwide, highlighting that people from Punjab have made significant contributions in many countries, including Canada, where they work hard and live peacefully. “Punjabis are settled around the globe, and they go abroad with a spirit of peace and diligence. We are people who seek the welfare of all,” he added.
Mann also criticized individuals engaging in divisive rhetoric. “If some individuals make such statements, it is condemnable. This does not mean all Punjabis are the same,” he clarified, urging for peaceful coexistence between communities. He emphasized that both communities affected by the incident are valued members of Indian society, and called on the Indian government to engage with Canadian authorities to ensure that such events do not recur.
Incident Sparks Global Outcry
Footage of the attack, shared widely on social media platforms by Canadian MPs, has drawn significant attention. The video depicts a violent scene in which pro-Khalistan supporters, holding Khalistani flags, targeted devotees at the Hindu Sabha Temple. The incident occurred during a consular camp organized by the Indian High Commission to assist Indian citizens with services, such as issuing life certificates. According to reports, the gathering coincided with the 40th anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in India, which appears to have fueled the demonstrators’ actions.
Canadian Authorities Criticized for Handling of the Incident
Following the assault, a video of police officers allegedly mistreating a Hindu youth also surfaced online, leading to further backlash. The footage shows law enforcement personnel purportedly roughing up temple devotees as they attempted to protect the pro-Khalistani protestors, raising questions about police conduct. Observers have criticized the apparent bias and called for an impartial investigation into the incident.
Prime Minister Modi and International Reactions
The attack has resonated globally, with international condemnation pouring in from various quarters. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed strong disapproval of the violence in Canada, stating, “We expect action from the Canadian government. Such incidents cannot weaken us.” Modi’s statement reflects a growing demand for accountability and safety measures to protect Indian citizens and their places of worship abroad.
Background and Rising Concerns Over Khalistani Activities
The pro-Khalistan movement has increasingly gained visibility in Canada, sparking tensions with the Indian community there. Canada has been criticized for permitting activities linked to Khalistani separatist groups, with the Indian government raising its concerns on international platforms. Indian authorities have expressed fears that these groups may pose a risk to both social harmony in Canada and the safety of Indian communities worldwide.
Chief Minister Mann acknowledged the challenges, stating, “When people use religion to politicize, it is wrong—especially in countries where such behavior is unexpected.” He emphasized that many Punjabis consider Canada a second home and visit India to celebrate cultural events, weddings, and festivals, highlighting the importance of good relations between the two nations.
A Call for Action and Accountability
Reflecting on the strong community ties between Canada and Punjab, Mann underscored that many Punjabis from nearly every second or third household have relatives living in Canada. “Our people consider Canada their second home. They come back here for marriages, festivals, and other occasions. It benefits both communities,” he noted, calling for diplomatic measures to prevent such incidents from impacting Indo-Canadian relations.
As the video of the attack continues to circulate, public demand for accountability is growing. Canadian law enforcement agencies, facing scrutiny over their handling of the incident, have yet to respond to calls for a full investigation into the actions of the officers involved.
