Police investigate protest at Hindu temple in Brampton

Police are investigating and politicians are condemning violence after a protest outside a Hindu temple in Brampton on Sunday afternoon.

Videos circulating on social media showed demonstrators holding banners in support of Khalistan, a supposed independent Sikh homeland in northern India, and clashing with others, including some holding India’s national flag.

The videos showed fist fights and people hitting each other with poles in the area surrounding the Hindu temple Sabha Mandir.

CBC Toronto could not independently verify what happened in the video.

Peel Regional Police said Sunday afternoon they were aware of the protest taking place at the Hindu Sabha Mandir and had increased their presence at the temple to maintain public order and safety.

“We respect the right to protest peacefully and safely, but will not tolerate violence or criminal acts,” Chief Nishan Duraiappa said Sunday after the videos began circulating. “Those who take part in this activity will be pursued, arrested and charged.”

Peel police told CBC Toronto that no arrests were made at the temple on Sunday. Police did not provide further information about the social media video, what happened or whether any complaints have been filed.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown condemned the violence in a post Sunday afternoon, saying those responsible must be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

“I am disappointed to learn about acts of violence outside the Hindu Sabha,” he said. “Freedom of religion is a fundamental value in Canada. Everyone should feel safe in their place of worship.”

On Sunday evening, Premier Doug Ford posted a message on X and called the incident “unacceptable.”

Other politicians echoed the condemnation on social media on Sunday, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh.

Relations between the governments of Canada and India have become strained over allegations of violence against Canadian Sikhs. Ottawa has accused India’s home minister of involvement in several attacks on Sikh activists on Canadian soil. The Indian government denies the allegations.

The group Sikhs for Justice said Khalistan supporters were protesting against Indian consulate officials making an announced visit to provide administrative services such as helping seniors obtain pensions.