Khalistani extremists vandalize Hindu temple in Toronto

Toronto, Sept 15: The incident took place at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, in Canada's Toronto was reportedly vandalized with anti-India graffiti. 'Canadian Khalistani extremists' were believed to be perpetrators of the incident. The Indian High Commission has condemned the incident and said it has requested the Canadian authorities to probe the case.

 

 

 

 

The incident at the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Toronto took place on Tuesday (Sept 13) with anti-India slogans scribbled on the walls of the temple. The Indian High Commission has condemned the incident and took it up with the Canadian authorities urging them to take prompt action on the culprits. “We strongly condemn defacing of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir Toronto with anti-India graffiti. Have requested Canadian authorities to investigate the incident and take prompt action on perpetrators,” the high commission tweeted.

 

 

 

 

 

According to Hindustan Times, a video of the temple after defacement is doing the rounds on social media where Khalistani slogans can be seen on the walls. However, the authenticity of the video is not verified yet. Brampton South MP Sonia Sidhu expressed shock at the incident and tweeted, "We live in a multicultural and multi-faith community where everyone deserves to feel safe. Those responsible should be located to face the consequences of their actions."

 

Indian-origin MP of Canada Chandra Arya said the incident is not isolated as Canadian Hindu temples have been targeted by this kind of hate crime in the recent past. "Vandalism of Toronto BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir by Canadian Khalistani extremists should be condemned by all. This is not just an isolated event. Canadian Hindu temples have been targeted in the recent past by these kinds of hate crime. Hindu Canadians are legitimately concerned," the MP said.

 

 

 

 

 

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