PM Modi slams Canada over deliberate attack on Hindu temple, attempts to intimidate diplomats: ‘Won't weaken India’s…’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed Canada over the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton, and attempts to intimidate diplomats amid increasing tension between India and Canada.

“I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada,” said PM Modi in a post on X, 

The prime minister further stated that the cowardly attempts to intimidate diplomats are equally appalling.

“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 added.

According to reports, an Indian consular camp at the Hindu Sabha Temple witnessed a ‘violent disruption’ on Sunday.

The incident prompted the High Commission of India in Ottawa to issue a strong statement condemning the attack by the "anti-India" elements.

Earlier in the day, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Canada's Brampton.

In a statement, the ministry said that India remains "deeply concerned" about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada.

"We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario yesterday. We call on the government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

"We also expect that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted. We remain deeply concerned about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada. The outreach of our consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment and violence," he said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also condemned the attack.

"The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely. Thank you to the Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident," Trudeau said in a post on X.

Following Trudeau's allegations in September last year of the "potential" involvement of Indian agents in Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, the relations between the two nations came under severe strain.

However, at a hearing on foreign interference, Trudeau acknowledged that he had not provided India with any concrete proof regarding the killing of Nijjar.