The alleged attack on worshipers inside the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton by youths waving yellow Khalistani flags has again sparked controversy, with India already accusing Canada of giving free rein to separatists and extremists.

Several videos purportedly showing violence inside the temple went viral on social media and sparked strong reactions from senior Canadian politicians, including the prime minister, opposition parties and Hindu organizations.

“The acts of violence committed today at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on his pseudonym X.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, who is also a candidate for prime minister in Canada, wrote on X: “Completely unacceptable to see violence targeting worshipers at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today. All Canadians should be free to practice their faith in peace. » I will unequivocally condemn this violence, I will unite our people and put an end to the chaos.

Initially, two groups, one holding Khalistan flags and the other Indian flags, argued heatedly at the main entrance of the temple as Peel Regional Police officers prevented them from approaching each other. one from the other.

Unidentified people carrying Khalistan flags raised slogans for Khalistan while another group carrying Indian flags raised ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ slogans. Things got worse when suspected Khalistan supporters entered the temple’s main gate and attacked devotees in the parking lot.

The leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada, Jagmeet Singh, said: “Every Canadian must be free to visit their place of worship in peace. I unequivocally condemn the acts of violence perpetrated at the Hindu Sabha Mandir. Violence, wherever it occurs, is bad. I join community leaders in calling for peace. “

The Canadian Hindu Foundation (HCF) has alleged that the Hindu Sabha temple was attacked by Khalistan terrorists. “Children, women and men are attacked. All this is happening with the support of Khalistaani’s political supporters,” the HCF said.

But till filing this report, no group of Khalistanis has claimed responsibility for today’s clash at the temple.

The Ontario Sikh and Gurdwara Council (OSGC), in a statement, strongly condemned the violence outside the temple and said intimidation has no place in the community and that peace, unity and mutual respect are the values ​​we defend. demanded a thorough investigation into the incident.

Prime Minister Trudeau thanked Peel Regional Police for responding quickly to protect the community and investigating the incident.

Peel Regional Police officials also said acts of violence, threats of violence or vandalism would be investigated.

“We have increased police presence to monitor and respond to any illegal activity,” authorities said in their official statement.