PM Modi Condemns Attack on Hindu Temple in Canada, Stands Firm Against Intimidation Attempts

New Delhi, November 4, 2024 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a strong condemnation on Monday in response to a recent attack on Hindu temple in Canada and attempts to intimidate Indian diplomats stationed there. The incident has sparked outrage and concern over the safety of Indian communities and representatives abroad.

I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 4, 2024

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed his deep disapproval, describing the temple attack as a “deliberate” act aimed at unsettling the Indian community. “I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada,” Modi stated, adding that such actions threaten the cultural harmony and safety of Indian communities in foreign nations.

PM Modi also addressed the mounting reports of Indian diplomats facing intimidation tactics, which he labeled as “cowardly” and unacceptable. “Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats,” Modi said. He underscored that such acts of violence and intimidation would not weaken India’s resolve to protect its people and principles.

The Prime Minister called upon Canadian authorities to take decisive action to uphold justice and maintain law and order. “We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” he asserted, emphasizing India’s demand for accountability and a secure environment for its citizens and diplomats.

This incident marks a concerning development in the Canada-India relationship, which has experienced strains in recent times over similar incidents. The Indian government has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad and reiterated its expectations from host countries to provide secure conditions for Indian institutions and communities.

The Indian government has been in communication with Canadian authorities to convey its concerns and expectations for swift action against those responsible for the incident.

India Denounces Extremist Violence at Hindu Sabha Temple in Canada, Calls for Strong Action

Earlier today, the Government of India issued a firm condemnation of the violent acts reportedly perpetrated by extremist and separatist groups at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario. The incident, which disrupted an Indian consular camp organized at the temple, has heightened concerns over the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada.

In a statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed “deep concern” regarding the violent disruption, underscoring the need for protective measures for Indian citizens and places of worship in Canada. “We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario yesterday. We call on the government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

The MEA’s statement reflects India’s growing alarm over the security challenges faced by the Indian diaspora in Canada, as incidents of violence and intimidation linked to extremist factions have surged. India has been urging Canadian authorities to adopt stricter policies to prevent such actions, particularly those linked to separatist and radical groups.

The ministry also emphasized that acts of intimidation will not deter Indian consular officials from extending outreach services to both Indian and Canadian citizens. “The outreach of our consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment, and violence,” Jaiswal assured.

Reports indicate that the Indian consular camp at the Hindu Sabha Temple experienced a “violent disruption” on Sunday, an incident that has intensified India’s demand for effective law enforcement actions by Canadian authorities. India has stressed that perpetrators involved in these acts must be prosecuted, ensuring that justice prevails and similar disruptions are prevented in the future.

This incident at the Hindu Sabha Temple follows a series of escalating confrontations and diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, largely revolving around concerns over rising extremism. The Indian government continues to push for Canadian cooperation in safeguarding Indian citizens and preserving communal harmony within the country.

As Indian authorities closely monitor the situation, the demand for justice and accountability remains resolute. Both countries now face the urgent task of addressing the security needs of their citizens while working towards a peaceful resolution of recent tensions.