International Desk: Chandra Arya, a Liberal Party MP in Canada, has alleged that Hindu Canadians are facing threats from extremists. He made the allegations in a speech to the House of Commons on September 20, 2023.
Arya said that he has received reports of Hindu Canadians being harassed, intimidated, and assaulted by extremists. He also said that Hindu temples and other religious institutions have been vandalized.
“A few days back Khalistan movement leader in Canada and the president of Sikhs for Justice which organizes the so-called referendum Gurpatwant Singh Pannun attacked Hindu-Canadians asking us to leave Canada and go back to India. I have heard from many Hindu-Canadians who are fearful after this targeted attack. I urge Hindu-Canadians to stay calm but vigilant,” Arya said in a video message posted on X, formerly Twitter.
The Liberal Party leader also urged people to report cases of Hinduphobia to local law enforcement agencies. He also alleged that Pannun is trying to provoke Hindus in Canada and create differences between the two communities.
“Let me be clear. Vast majority of our Canadian Sikh brothers and sisters do not support Khalistan movement. Most Sikh Canadians may not publicly condemn the Khalistan movement for several reasons but they are deeply connected to the Hindu-Canadian community,” Arya added.
Arya called on the Canadian government to take action to protect Hindu Canadians from these threats. He said that the government should investigate the allegations and bring the perpetrators to justice. He also called on the government to provide support to Hindu Canadians who have been victims of hate crimes.
The Canadian government has condemned the threats against Hindu Canadians. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the government is committed to protecting the safety and security of all Canadians, regardless of their faith or background.
Meanwhile, India has issued an advisory for Indian nationals and students residing in Canada as well as those contemplating traveling to the country, asking them “to exercise utmost caution”.
The advisory by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, has been issued in view of growing anti-India activities and politically condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada.
“Recently, threats have particularly targeted Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community who oppose the anti-India agenda. India nationals are, therefore, advised to avoid travelling to regions and protentional venues in Canada that have seen such incidents,” the advisory stated.