Trudeau, Poilievre Address Violent Clash at Brampton Hindu Temple

In a file photo, people line up to take part in a Khalistan referendum at a temple in Surrey, B.C., on Oct. 29, 2023. The Canadian Press/Ethan Cairns

The conflict between Sikh Khalistani activists and Hindu groups in Ontario was raised in the House of Commons on Nov. 5, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemning the violence and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre blaming the government for the divisions.

“The individuals who are inciting violence, division and hatred in no way represent either the Sikh community or the Hindu community in Canada,” Trudeau said on Nov. 5. “We will continue to stand for the unity of Canadians,” he added.

Trudeau’s remarks follow a demonstration that turned violent on Nov. 3, during which pro-Khalistan protesters clashed with individuals attending a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ont. The Sikh separatists were protesting a visit by Indian consular officials to the temple.

The protest later spread to neighbouring Mississauga, with police ultimately arresting three individuals. More protests erupted at the Brampton temple on Nov. 4, with the police reported sighting weapons at the scene. 

Poilievre blamed Trudeau for the conflict, accusing the prime minister of sowing “divisions” in the country. He pointed to other emerging social conflicts in Canada in recent years, including violence against Jewish communities and incidents of church arson and vandalism.

Trudeau responded by criticizing Poilievre for not obtaining the top-level security clearance he said is needed to “understand the threats to Canada.” Trudeau also criticized Poilievre for not releasing a statement on the violence in Brampton.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown has called on both Hindu and Sikh activist groups to “de-escalate” the situation and said he wants to pass a bylaw to prohibit protests at places of worship.

“The pro India and pro Khalistan sides who think it is appropriate to protest at a place of worship are completely wrong. This must stop,” Brown wrote on the X platform. “Both sides need to de-escalate.”

The Brampton conflict prompted a response from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Nov. 4.

“I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. 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 on the social media platform X.

The tension comes after the Canadian government in October accused Indian government agents of involvement in criminal activity in Canada, including homicides and extortion, with an impact on the Sikh community. India has denied the allegations.

Noé Chartier and The Canadian Press contributed to this report.