Canada Suspends Officer For Attending Pro-Khalistan Protest Outside Hindu Temple

Canadian authorities have suspended a police officer after footage surfaced of him participating in a pro-Khalistan protest outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton. The video, widely circulated on social media, reportedly shows Peel Regional Police Sergeant Harinder Sohi holding a Khalistan flag while demonstrators chanted anti-India slogans, according to a report by CBC News.

Peel Regional Police’s Media Relations Officer, Richard Chin, confirmed the officer’s suspension under the Community Safety and Policing Act. “We are aware of a video circulating on social media showing an off-duty Peel Police officer involved in a demonstration,” Chin stated in an email to CBC, adding that a full investigation is underway.

Tensions flared on Sunday as Indian consular officials visited the Hindu Sabha Mandir. Following the visit clash broke out between supporters of Khalistan and individuals carrying the Indian national flag. Khalistan is a proposed Sikh homeland in northern India. Videos from the incident depict fistfights and exchanges of blows with poles near the temple grounds. Peel police reported that, following the initial unrest, the protest was relocated to two other sites in nearby Mississauga.

Also Read: India Condemns Violent Incident At Hindu Sabha Temple In Canada

Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah condemned the violence, emphasizing the department’s stance on maintaining public safety. “We respect the right to protest peacefully and safely but will not tolerate violence and criminal acts,” Duraiappah said, warning that those involved in violent behavior would face legal action.

The incident has prompted responses from Canadian political leaders and a strong reaction from India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, calling it a “deliberate attack” on the Hindu temple. Modi further demanded accountability from the Canadian government, urging it to uphold the rule of law. “Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve,” Modi stated on X (formerly Twitter).

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also expressed concern, calling for the prosecution of those involved. “We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple,” MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. He added that India expects Canadian authorities to take swift measures to protect Indian nationals and their places of worship.

The incident underscores ongoing challenges in balancing freedom of expression and public safety within Canadian borders.