PM Modi strongly condemns attack on Hindu temple; Canada police arrest three Hindus

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Nov. 4) strongly condemned the attack by Khalistani extremists on the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton with devotees inside and said that the Justin Trudeau government in Canada is expected to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law. 

Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, "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."

The statement by the prime minister came as three people were arrested by the Canadian police on Monday (Nov 4) for protesting against the pro-Khalistani elements who attacked the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Canada, reported news agency ANI.

The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) had organised the protest to express solidarity and protest against the "anti-Hindu" hatred and the "Khalistani intimidation".

The protests were organised at the Laxmi Narayan Temple and the Brampton Temple in Surrey.

The Peel Regional Police in Canada announced that three people have been arrested.

"Earlier today, Peel Regional Police were present at a demonstration held at a place of worship in Brampton. The event was subsequently relocated to two different locations within the city of Mississauga. As a result of these demonstrations, three individuals have been arrested and criminally charged for their actions. Several acts of unlawfulness continue to be actively investigated by our 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau along with 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau," said Peel Regional police, in a statement.

Also Read: India condemns attack on Hindu devotees at Canada temple by 'anti-India' elements

The Peel Regional Police, in a different statement, said that the protest had shifted to the Westwood Mall area in Mississauga and then moved to Airport Road and Derry Road.

They stated that one police officer also suffered minor injuries during the protest. The investigation into the situation is being carried out by the 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau with the 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau.

"Police believe that the same protestors relocated to the Westwood Mall area in the City of Mississauga. During the management of the protest, an individual was arrested which resulted in an officer sustaining minor injuries. The same group of protestors have since relocated to the area of Airport Road and Derry Road in Mississauga," added the statement.

India and Canada speak on violence in Hindu temple

Criticising the "acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists" at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randir Jaiswal said, "We call on the Government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks. We also expect that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted."

Watch: Canada PM Trudeau Condemns Attack on Hindu Devotees in Canada, Calls It 'Unacceptable'

"We remain deeply concerned about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada. The outreach of our Consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment and violence," he added.

Earlier, taking to X, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reacted, "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. Thank you to the Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident."

(With inputs from agencies)