Three people have now been charged, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a social media post condemning what Canadian law enforcement calls demonstrations under investigation for alleged “unlawful acts” that first began outside a Hindu temple in Ontario on Sunday.
according to Peel Regional Police Monday morning. Three people were arrested and charged in connection with the incident While other alleged acts are still under investigation.
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On Sunday, just after 2:30 p.m., Peel Regional Police said they were aware of the protest that took place at a temple in Brampton, Ontario, and urged the public to ensure a “peaceful and lawful protest,” noting that they had increased a visible presence to monitor the activities.
About half an hour before police posted on X about the protest, Liberal Minister Anita Anand said she was “concerned about reports of unacceptably violent attacks on the Sabha Hindu temple in Brampton.”
A video circulating on X appears to show people using flagpoles to beat others.
According to police, investigators believe the same protesters who demonstrated outside the temple later moved to two separate locations in Mississauga, Ontario.
Peel Police said one of the arrests that occurred on Sunday “while directing a protest” in the Westwood Mall area of Mississauga resulted in a police officer sustaining minor injuries.
The Canadian Hindu Foundation claimed that the “attack” was “occurring with the support of Khalistani political sympathizers.”
In his post, Modi claimed that there were “cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats.”
Police presence outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Ontario. On November 2, 2024.
Steve Rafus/Global News
“Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” Modi wrote in a message on X.
Law enforcement said they appreciate the cooperation of those who remained peaceful and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Several Canadian politicians denounced the incident, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calling the violence “unacceptable.”
“Every Canadian has the right to practice their religion freely and safely,” he wrote on X’s website.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also said his party “unequivocally” condemns the violence, adding that it “will unite our people and end the chaos.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the incident and added, “No one should feel unsafe in their place of worship.”
—With files from Global News’ Gabe Rodriguez and Andrew Benson
&Copy 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
