Canadian MP Chandra Arya Calls Out Politicians for Misleading on Hindu-Sikh Unity Amid Khalistani Extremism
Canadian MP Chandra Arya Calls Out Politicians: Canadian MP Chandra Arya has taken a firm stance against politicians allegedly framing recent tensions in Canada as a divide between Hindu and Sikh communities. Following an attack by Khalistani supporters at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Arya has criticized those he believes are misrepresenting the event as a Hindu-Sikh conflict instead of condemning Khalistani extremism directly.
The incident occurred on November 3, during an event co-organized by the temple and the Indian Consulate in Brampton, Ontario. Protesters bearing Khalistani flags disrupted the gathering, clashing with devotees and sparking broader concerns over the portrayal of Hindu and Sikh relations in Canada. Arya, who represents Nepean, Ontario, posted a video and a statement on X, asserting that politicians are “deliberately avoiding” labeling Khalistani extremists as responsible, and instead creating a false divide between Hindu and Sikh communities.
“Hindus and Sikhs Stand United,” Says Arya
Arya emphasized the solidarity between Hindu-Canadians and Sikh-Canadians, asserting that the real divide lies between these communities and the Khalistani extremists, not between Hindus and Sikhs. He stressed that Hindus and Sikhs frequently visit each other’s places of worship and share a strong bond that should not be undermined by political agendas.
Arya’s statements reflect growing concerns in Canada over the portrayal of Sikh-Canadians as supporters of the Khalistani movement. He referenced former British Columbia Premier Ujjal Dosanjh, who has voiced that a “silent majority” of Sikhs oppose Khalistan but remain quiet due to fear of violent repercussions from extremists. Dosanjh has also highlighted that despite this majority, pro-Khalistani groups hold influence over Gurudwaras and can impact the political sphere.
Political Divisions and Diplomatic Strains
This incident in Brampton adds to the already tense diplomatic relationship between Canada and India. The relationship has deteriorated since September, when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested potential Indian involvement in the assassination of Canadian Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, allegations that India has firmly denied as “absurd.” In response, India expelled Canadian diplomats and withdrew high-level representatives from Ottawa, highlighting Canada’s alleged tolerance of pro-Khalistan activities on its soil.
Trudeau, acknowledging the presence of Khalistani supporters within Canada, recently noted during Diwali celebrations at Parliament Hill that these individuals do not represent the Sikh community as a whole. Similarly, he pointed out that not all Hindu Canadians support Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling for a nuanced view of the political landscape.
Arya’s Call to Action
Urging Hindu and Sikh communities in Canada to reject divisive narratives, Arya encouraged community leaders to refrain from offering platforms to politicians who do not explicitly condemn Khalistani extremism. Arya’s strong message reflects a commitment to preventing the polarization of Canada’s diverse communities, especially in the face of extremist activities that risk harming both Hindu and Sikh-Canadian unity.
