India raises serious concern with Canada on vandalism of Hindu temple

The Indian Embassy in Canada has conveyed its serious concerns over the defacing of a Hindu Gauri Shankar Temple in the city of Brampton by so-called Sikh separatists to Global Affairs. Canada has also requested local law enforcement authorities to initiate action in the matter.

India’s concern on the issue was conveyed through note verbale to the Justin Trudeau government today in Canada.

The incident comes close on the heels of a similar incident of defacing a Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple at Melbourne in Australia by so-called Khalistan separatists. The Indian Embassy in Australia has taken up the issue with the Australian government.

Members of the same group have been active in the UK, Germany, and the US under the banner of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a banned outfit. The group has been collecting funds from local Gurudwaras under the false pretext of atrocities against the Sikh community in India.

While the Indian government has forcefully taken up the issue with the respective governments, the US, British and Canadian governments have been dragging their feet on the issue and justifying their inaction in the name of “freedom of speech.” Cases of violence and false propaganda against a sovereign democratic republic are being brushed under the carpet.

There is strong suspicion within the national security establishment that no action is being taken against the so-called Sikh separatists as a deliberate move to defame the Indian government by portraying minority communities as victims.

India’s growing global status and its independent stand on the Ukraine-Russia war appear to be reasons behind the move.

Also Read: India takes up issue of vandalization of Bhagavad Gita Park sign in Brampton with Canada