Several global Hindu advocacy organizations have strongly criticized the Khalistani extremist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) for urging protests outside Hindu temples in Canada. They are concerned about potential disruptions and have called on authorities to ensure the safety of religious places and communities. The SFJ has announced rallies on April 5 in front of Triveni Mandir in Brampton and Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey to protest against the Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF).
The HCF has objected to these planned rallies, labeling the targeting of the Hindu community as xenophobia and Hinduphobia. They have urged Canadian police to provide full-day security at temple premises on April 5 due to the history of violent and extremist behavior associated with Khalistani extremist groups. Meanwhile, the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) has also criticized the SFJ’s plans to protest outside Hindu temples, citing concerns over past violent incidents, including an assault on Hindu devotees in 2024.
CoHNA highlighted that Hindu devotees visiting temples for prayer have faced loud and abusive demonstrations at entrances, along with violent imagery and verbal harassment. They condemned such actions as religious bigotry and targeted harassment disguised as freedom of speech. The organization expressed support for the HCF’s right to express opinions on the Khalistan movement without fear of bullying or physical harassment.
Acknowledging Peel Regional Police’s commitment to enforcing protective measures around Triveni Mandir, CoHNA called on Surrey Police and authorities to implement similar safety measures for Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. They emphasized that the right to expression should not include the right to physically or psychologically lay siege to a congregation.
