Temple attack in Canada raises concerns over security, rights of Indian diaspora in Canada

The recent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Canada, has once again highlighted the tense diplomatic situation between India and Canada, with both countries navigating an increasingly complex web of domestic issues and international. The incident, marked by violent clashes involving pro-Khalistani extremists outside the temple, was quickly condemned by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, each leader’s response highlights stark differences in their approach, further straining bilateral relations. Prime Minister Modi’s condemnation of the attack was strong and focused. Taking to social media, he expressed disappointment over the attack, calling it a “deliberate” act against Hindu religious sentiments and emphasizing that “such acts of violence never weaken India’s resolve “. Prime Minister Modi did not hesitate to call on the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law, sending a clear message that India expects Ottawa to take decisive action to protect its diaspora.

Although Trudeau also condemned the temple attack, his statement notably avoided any direct mention of the pro-Khalistani extremists involved. The omission reflects a recurring problem in Trudeau’s handling of India-related tensions in Canada, where a vocal pro-Khalistani community has been implicated in acts perceived as hostile by India. Trudeau’s hesitance to directly address this faction is a persistent irritant in India-Canada relations, amplifying concerns in New Delhi over Ottawa’s stance on issues affecting the Indian diaspora and community. Hindu in Canada. The attack also comes at a time when broader diplomatic relations between the two countries are under severe strain, with recent allegations and counter-allegations creating a sense of mutual distrust. Last September, Trudeau alleged that India may have been involved in the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a known Khalistani militant, killed in mysterious circumstances in Canada. Although the Canadian Prime Minister has yet to provide concrete evidence to support this claim, the accusation has deepened divisions between the two nations, prompting India to refute any such involvement and criticize the position of the Canadian government. Modi’s recent comments also touched on another point of contention: the alleged surveillance of Indian consular staff in Canada. This has not only raised security concerns but also highlighted the growing difficulties Indian diplomats face within Canadian borders. The presence of surveillance, coupled with incidents like the temple attack, fuels the perception that pro-Khalistani extremists are becoming emboldened, even as the Trudeau administration appears reluctant to fully confront these groups. With each new incident – ​​whether an attack on a temple or allegations of state-backed assassination plots – the divide seems to widen, testing the resilience of commitments of the two countries in favor of a constructive relationship.