India’s PM Modi condemns ‘Sikh’ attack on Hindu temple in Canada

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the recent attack on a visiting Indian minister in Canada by alleged Sikh activists. The incident, which took place on Monday, has sparked concerns about the state of bilateral relations between India and Canada. In his statement, Modi called the attack “deliberate” and urged the Canadian government to take immediate action against the perpetrators.

The attack took place during a peaceful gathering of the Indian-Canadian community in Montreal, where Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar was invited as a guest speaker. The event was aimed at strengthening the cultural and economic ties between the two nations. However, a group of protestors, allegedly belonging to the Sikh community, disrupted the event and attempted to attack the minister. The timely intervention of security personnel prevented any harm to the minister, but the incident has left a sour taste in the mouths of the Indian delegation.

The Indian government has expressed deep concern over the incident and has urged the Canadian authorities to take strict action against those responsible. In his statement, Modi expressed his disappointment over the attack and stated that such violent acts have no place in a democratic and civilized society. He also emphasized the need for the Indian-Canadian community to come together and stand against such disruptive elements that are trying to disrupt the strong bond between the two nations.

This incident has also brought to light the simmering issue of Khalistani separatism, which has been a cause of concern for India for decades. The involvement of Sikh activists in this attack has raised questions about the safety and security of Indian officials and delegations visiting Canada. The Indian government has, time and again, raised this issue with the Canadian government and has urged them to take necessary steps to curb any such activities that may harm the friendly relations between the two nations.

The attack has also caused a strain on the bilateral ties between India and Canada, which have been on an upward trajectory in recent years. The two nations have been strengthening their cooperation in various fields, including trade, defense, and people-to-people contacts. However, this incident has raised doubts about the commitment of the Canadian government towards maintaining a strong and friendly relationship with India.

In the wake of this incident, many leaders and members of the Indian-Canadian community have come forward to express their support for the Indian government and urged the Canadian authorities to take swift action. They have also emphasized the need for the Canadian government to address the underlying issues that may have led to such an attack.

On his part, the Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has expressed his appreciation for the prompt action taken by the Canadian security personnel to prevent any harm to him. He has also thanked the Indian-Canadian community for their support and solidarity in this difficult time.

The Indian government hopes that the Canadian government will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of Indian delegations and officials in the future. The two nations share a strong bond of friendship and cooperation, and it is imperative to not let such isolated incidents damage this relationship.

In conclusion, the Indian government strongly condemns the attack on the Indian minister in Canada and urges the Canadian authorities to take immediate action against the perpetrators. The incident should serve as a wake-up call for both nations to work together to address issues that may harm the friendly ties between them. India remains committed to strengthening its relationship with Canada and hopes that this incident will not hinder the progress of this partnership.