NEW DELHI: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday condemned recent incidents of violence in Canada and urged the Indian government to address the issue with Canadian authorities.
Mann noted that Canada is home to millions of Punjabis who have established successful lives there, supporting their families and contributing to local communities. He emphasized the importance of maintaining cordial ties with Canada, stating, “It is unfortunate that divisive and hateful politics has taken root in Canada.”
Expressing disbelief that religious and hateful politics would be tolerated in a country like Canada, the Chief Minister urged the Canadian government to take exemplary action against the perpetrators to deter further incidents.
Mann highlighted the resilience and hard work of Punjabis who have made their mark globally. India, he added, is “deeply concerned” about the safety and security of its nationals in Canada.
Tensions between India and Canada remain high amid Canada’s alleged support for Khalistani separatists and accusations that India was involved in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen labeled a terrorist by India.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) working president Balwinder Singh Bhundar also condemned the recent violence at a temple in Brampton and called on Canadians of Indian origin to resist efforts to divide them along communal lines.
Bhundar urged the Canadian government to secure places of worship against violence, stating, “Attempts are being made to create divisions between Sikhs and Hindus in Canada, which contradicts the teachings of Guru Sahiban on ‘sarbat da bhala’ (welfare of all).”
