A protest that allegedly descended into violence at a Hindu temple in Brampton on Sunday afternoon is being looked into by Peel Regional Police.
Police said there was the protest in the northeast end of the city before violence erupted, according to reports and video on social media.
An argument at the Hindu Sabha Mandir is captured in a social media video, with some individuals brandishing India’s national flag while others appear to be holding banners supporting Khalistan, a separate Sikh province. Additionally, it seems that the video depicts fistfights and pole-throwing altercations.
“While we respect the individual rights to protest as per the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, our duty and responsibility remain to maintain public order and ensure the safety of everyone,” Peel police said in a statement on social media.
“As such, we are asking for the co-operation of the public to engage and facilitate in a peaceful and lawful protest.”
Peel police Chief Nishan Duraiappah took to social media, saying violence will not be tolerated.
“We respect the right to protest in a peaceful and safe manner but will not tolerate violence and criminal acts,” he wrote, “those that do participate in this activity will be pursued, arrested and charged.”
He also said Peel police would have a “large” presence in the area, but no arrests had been announced.
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown wrote on social media that he was upset to hear about the events.
“Religious freedom is a foundational value in Canada. Everyone should feel safe in their place of worship. I strongly condemn any acts of violence outside of a place of worship,” Brown said.
He said he is confident the police “will do everything in their authority to keep the peace and hold those accountable who commit acts of violence.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the reports of violence at the protest “shameful.
“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 wrote on social media.
Premier Doug Ford praised police for their “quick response,” adding that the incident is “completely unacceptable and must be condemned.
“No one should feel unsafe at their place of worship,” he wrote on X.
The group Sikhs for Justice said that Khalistan supporters had been protesting Indian consulate officials undertaking an announced visit to provide administrative services such as helping seniors access pensions.
