SOURCE: AFI
Amid a wave of incidents targeting Hindu temples in Canada, Hindu Canadians are voicing their anger and organizing to protect their religious spaces and communities from further defacement and intimidation. The tensions have ignited calls for a boycott of Khalistani-affiliated businesses that are suspected of supporting anti-Hindu actions and fostering division within Canada’s diverse immigrant population.
Following recent attacks on Hindu temples in Canadian cities, there has been a growing movement among Hindu Canadians to identify businesses and individuals associated with Khalistani support and influence. This comes after an attack on a prominent Hindu temple that has stirred fear, frustration, and resolve within the Hindu community. Many feel that Hindu Canadians are being unfairly targeted due to their opposition to Khalistani demands, which call for a separate Sikh state thousands of kilometers away.
Many Hindu Canadians believe a clear stance must be taken against Khalistani supporters to prevent further attacks and ensure the community’s safety. A Hindu Canadian originally from Goa, now residing in Vancouver, shared his view with AFI: “They want our money but then send goons to attack our temples.” He advocated for targeted boycotts of Khalistani-backed businesses, adding that it’s time for the community to stand strong against anyone actively undermining Hindu-Canadian interests.
Another Canadian Hindu from a Caribbean background echoed this sentiment, stating, “It’s time to unite. Today they came for our temples; tomorrow they will come for our homes.” The sense of urgency among Hindu Canadians has heightened in response to these incidents, with many fearing a continued escalation in hostility unless decisive action is taken.
Temple trustees across Canada are also feeling the pressure as members of the community have criticized them for what they perceive as inaction. Prominent Hindu temples in Canada have been defaced over the past year, often with slogans or symbols associated with pro-Khalistani ideologies. The community’s frustration with temple leadership stems from the belief that these incidents could have been mitigated with stronger preventative measures or a clearer stance against such activities.
As the tension between the two communities grows, so does the backlash from certain segments of the population, with some pro-Khalistan groups allegedly calling for Hindu Canadians to “go back to India.” This rhetoric has deepened the divide, creating a sense of alienation among Hindu Canadians who view themselves as loyal, contributing members of Canadian society.
A Hindu Canadian originally from Mumbai remarked, “They say we are not loyal to Canada, but these Khalistani supporters are also not loyal to Canada—they desire a new homeland 8,000 kilometers away.” Many in the community feel they are being unfairly branded as “outsiders” for merely standing up against divisive agendas.
In response, many Hindu Canadians are advocating for unity within the diaspora to counter this antagonism. Some have suggested organizing a coalition of community leaders to establish a safety network for temples, residences, and businesses to preempt and deter further incidents. They believe a strong, organized response can reaffirm their sense of security and belonging within Canada.