'Violent Disruption By Anti-India Elements': High Commission Calls Out Attack On Hindu Temple In Canada

High Commission of India in Ottawa raised concern over the 'prevailing security situation in Canada' and called the attack at a Hindu temple in Brampton near Toronto 'a violent disruption.'

The press release accused 'anti-India elements' of violently disrupting routine consular work at a camp co-organised by Hindu Sabha Mandir and called it 'deeply disappointing.'

"We also remain very concerned for the safety of applicants, including Indian nationals, on whose demand such events are organised in the first place," the press release added.

Videos circulating on social media capture groups of protesters, including Khalistan supporters and others waving the Indian national flag, clashing on the premises of the Hindu Sabha Mandir temple.

In some footage, individuals are seen engaging in fistfights and using poles during the altercation. The clash happened during a visit by Indian consular officials to the camp.

India alleged that there were also attempts to disrupt similar camps in Vancouver and Surrey on 2-3 November and highlighted the 'continued threats posed to Indian diplomats.'

"Organisation of further scheduled consular camps will be contingent on security arrangements made for them by local authorities," the High Commission asserted.

It added that alternate arrangements would be made to provide such services if these camps became infeasible but it noted that this would cause inconvenience to local users.