Canadian Cop Suspended for Joining Pro-Khalistan Protest Outside Hindu Temple in Brampton

Ravi Singh

Brampton, Canada (November 2024) – A Canadian police officer has been suspended after participating in a pro-Khalistan protest outside the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton. The protest, which took place on Sunday, saw demonstrators carrying Khalistani flags clash with attendees and disrupt a consular event organized by the temple and the Indian Consulate.

According to reports, unverified videos circulating on social media showed protestors waving banners in support of Khalistan. Peel Police acknowledged the presence of an off-duty officer at the protest, stating that they are investigating the full context of his involvement. “The officer has since been suspended in accordance with the Community Safety and Policing Act,” confirmed Media Relations Officer Richard Chin, adding that further details would be withheld until the investigation concludes.

The protest at the Hindu Sabha Temple escalated into physical altercations, resulting in the arrest of three individuals. The World Sikh Organisation of Canada reported that demonstrators later moved to Mississauga, gathering outside the Westwood Mall and the Malton Gurdwara on Airport Road. Police noted that while these protests occurred at different locations, they appeared to be interconnected, with confrontations arising between protestors and worshippers.

The Indian government responded strongly to the incidents. In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), New Delhi condemned the violence, demanding action from Canadian authorities. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton. We urge the Canadian government to ensure that all places of worship are safeguarded against such attacks.”

The clash underscores mounting tensions between Indian nationals and pro-Khalistan supporters in Canada.