08/11/2024
One Panth unequivocally condemns any form of violence at places of worship. These are sacred spaces dedicated to peace, spirituality, and community gathering, and we firmly believe that they must remain free from conflict or disruption. We stand united in the principle that all people, regardless of faith or background, have the right to worship and gather peacefully.
Recent incidents have raised significant concerns within our community. It is essential to emphasize that the latest WAS NOT an attack on a mandir, but rather an altercation between two groups with differing viewpoints, specifically protestors and counter-protestors from pro-India groups.
Available evidence clearly shows that the situation was provoked and escalated by Pro India counter-protestors who sought to disrupt the initial gathering. Such instigation not only undermines the peaceful intentions of lawful protests but also raises questions about outside interference in Canadian matters. These Bad actors are now being charged by the Peel Police.
There is growing alarm regarding the activities of Indian consulate officials who are reported to be operating within certain worship spaces in Canada. Given the allegations against these officials, which have been substantiated by both the RCMP and the Government of Canada, we question why they are allowed to operate in these sacred spaces. Allowing political interference in places of worship is inappropriate and risks undermining the neutrality and peace these locations represent.
This issue is part of a broader pattern of concern, particularly in light of the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a respected community leader in British Columbia. Mr. Nijjar was a strong advocate for Sikh rights and was actively involved in the campaign for Sikh self-determination.
The Canadian government has publicly acknowledged credible intelligence linking Indian state operatives to Mr. Nijjar’s murder. This brazen act of violence has shaken the Sikh community in Canada and highlighted the severe risks faced by those who speak out on issues of human rights and self-determination.
Furthermore, reports have surfaced regarding additional "murder-for-hire" plots targeting Canadian citizens, activists, and community leaders critical of the Indian government. These alarming revelations reflect a pattern of attempted intimidation and silencing through threats of violence or assassination on Canadian soil. Such actions constitute a grave violation of Canadian sovereignty and a direct threat to our nation's values of freedom, safety, and democracy.
Our community is deeply troubled by the evidence of foreign interference in Canada, especially when it involves places of worship or seeks to destabilize Canadian communities. Specifically, we question why Indian consulate officials, implicated by evidence presented by both the RCMP and the Government of Canada, are allowed to operate within Canadian religious institutions. Such activities undermine the sanctity of places of worship, which should remain neutral spaces free from political agendas or intimidation tactics. The allegations against Indian consulate officials include:
Interference in Canada’s domestic affairs through political pressure and influence over community gatherings and events.
Surveillance and intimidation of Canadian citizens and residents critical of the Indian government.
Attempts to influence Canadian institutions through pressure on diaspora communities.
Collusion in acts of violence and intimidation against Canadian activists and leaders.
We call on the Canadian government to take immediate, decisive action to investigate and address these concerns. Protecting the sanctity of places of worship and the safety of Canadian citizens from foreign intimidation is paramount.
We urge Canadian authorities to protect the rights of all people to live freely, voice their opinions, and participate in Canadian civil society without fear of violence or retaliation. A full and transparent investigation into these grave matters is necessary to uphold the values of peace, respect, and sovereignty for all Canadians.
