Yesterday, at the Hindu Sabha Mandir, a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, there was an incident during a temple event. Pro-Khalistan movement protesters held a demonstration outside the temple, which escalated into violence. It is unclear what led to the protest turning violent and who initiated the violence. Today, ISKCON Communications North America released a statement condemning the incident:

Statement on Attack of Hindu Sabha Mandir in Canada

November 4th, 2024

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) strongly condemns the recent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. ISKCON stands firmly for religious freedom and the right of all faiths to worship in peace and security, both in Canada and worldwide. Acts of extremist violence have no place in any society, especially in sacred spaces.

This incident is one of many similar events in recent years, underscoring a profoundly concerning rise in religious intolerance. Globally, political extremism continues to adversely impact communities everywhere. Our shared Hindu values and culture call us to respond resiliently in these challenging times. As faith leaders and community members, we must promote non-violence, understanding, and truth to foster a culture of tolerance.

ISKCON Canada deeply values its partnership with the Hindu Sabha Mandir and is grateful for their support in spreading Sanatan Dharma and Vaisnava teachings across Canada. ISKCON also acknowledges and respects the Sikh community, which stands united against violence and celebrates the spirit of unity in diversity as servants of God.

ISKCON calls on the Canadian government to make the protection of religious freedoms and the safety of the Hindu community a priority. Acts of violence driven by religious hatred must be met with the full force of the law.

We urge our Hindu community, all Canadians, and those across different faiths to stand together in rejecting extremism and uphold the principles of dharma with unity and strength.

ISKCON Communications North America Directors
Kumari Kunti Dasi, kumari.kunti@iskcon.org
Madan Gopal Das, madan.gopal@iskcon.org

A .pdf version of the statement can be downloaded here.