Modi opposes violence over the Canada temple tragedy

Modi opposes violence over the Canada temple tragedy

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned what he describes as “cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats” amid escalating tensions in the diplomatic dispute with Canada.

Last month, diplomatic tensions escalated as both nations expelled their highest-ranking envoys. This move followed allegations from Canadian officials, who accused India of involvement in violent actions against Indian dissidents within Canada, a claim that India has firmly denied.

Following the outbreak of violence at a Hindu temple in Brampton, Canada, on Sunday, Modi characterized the incident as a “deliberate attack.”

India’s determination remains unshaken in the face of such acts of violence. In a post on X, he expressed his expectation that the Canadian government will ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.

Authorities in Brampton, located near Toronto, have confirmed that three individuals have been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. However, additional details have not been disclosed at this time.

The force announced that its officers are actively investigating several ongoing acts of unlawfulness.

An unverified video circulating online seems to depict individuals bearing yellow flags associated with the Khalistan movement, which advocates for a distinct Sikh homeland in India, engaged in a confrontation with others displaying Indian flags.

India’s foreign ministry has attributed the recent violence to “extremists and separatists,” urging the Canadian government to take measures to “ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks.”

The activist organization Sikhs for Justice, located in North America, characterized the incident as an “unprovoked violent attack on peaceful pro-Khalistan demonstrators.”

Justin Trudeau expressed on X that the violence witnessed on Sunday was “unacceptable,” emphasizing that “every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely.”

Diplomatic ties between India and Canada have deteriorated following allegations from Ottawa that the Indian government was involved in the 2023 assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen who is designated as a terrorist in India.

India has firmly rejected these allegations, asserting that Canada has failed to present any evidence to substantiate its claims.

Mr. Nijjar was an outspoken advocate for the Khalistan movement, actively campaigning to support its objectives.

The growing rift between Canada and India has prompted inquiries regarding its potential effects on the robust trade and immigration connections between the two nations.

The value of bilateral trade reaches billions of dollars, while Canada boasts a population of nearly 1.7 million individuals of Indian descent.

Neither India nor Canada has implemented tariffs or other economic retaliatory measures. However, experts warn that this situation may evolve, and a deterioration in relations between the two nations could impede future economic growth.

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