Police officer Harinder Sohi, a member of the Peel Regional Police in Canada, has been suspended after participating in a protest linked to pro-Khalistani groups that attacked Hindus at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton. Videos surfaced showing him at the protest on Sunday, where he was seen holding a Khalistan flag while others shouted anti-India slogans.
Suspension and Threats
Following the incident, Sohi, who has served for 18 years, reportedly received death threats on social media. In response, the Peel Regional Police Association offered him “assistance and protection.” Peel Police spokesperson Richard Chin confirmed awareness of the video and stated that Sohi’s suspension aligns with the Community Safety and Policing Act. Chin emphasized that they are investigating the situation thoroughly and could not share additional details until the investigation concludes.
Peel Regional Police’s Response
The Peel Regional Police are taking steps to ensure that any upcoming protests remain “peaceful and lawful.” They announced on social media that officers will be present to maintain order during planned demonstrations. “Violence and other criminal acts have no place in our community,” they stated.
Prime Minister Modi’s Condemnation
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack on the Hindu temple, calling it “deliberate.” He stated, “I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.”
Justin Trudeau’s Reaction
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also condemned the violence. Peel Regional Police announced that three individuals have been arrested and charged in relation to the protest at the temple. The charges include assault with a weapon and assaulting a police officer. The previous day, police had arrested four additional suspects, including 43-year-old Dilpreet Singh Bouns, 23-year-old Vikas, and 31-year-old Amritpal Singh.
Ministry of External Affairs Condemns Violence
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement condemning the violent acts committed by extremists at the Hindu Sabha Temple. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal urged the Canadian government to protect all places of worship and prosecute those involved in violence. He added that the outreach of Consular officers to Indians and Canadians would not be deterred by intimidation or violence.
Political Reactions in Canada
The incident has drawn widespread criticism, both domestically and internationally. Canadian opposition leader Pierre Poilievre called the attack on the Hindu temple “completely unacceptable.” Additionally, MP Chandra Arya condemned the attack, stating that Khalistani extremists have crossed a “red line,” and noted the concerning rise in violent extremism in Canada.
Ongoing Diplomatic Tensions Between India and Canada
This incident further complicates the already strained diplomatic relations between India and Canada. Relations have deteriorated following Canadian allegations about India’s involvement in the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which India has denied, labeling the claims as “absurd” and “motivated.” Nijjar was shot outside a Gurdwara in Surrey in June last year and was designated a terrorist by India’s National Investigation Agency.