The Indian Mission in Ottawa on Monday expressed disappointment after pro-Khalistan supporters targeted a consular camp held outside a Hindu temple in Brampton, calling the incident a "violent disruption orchestrated by anti-India elements."

The Indian Mission voiced dismay over disruptions affecting routine consular events, which it said are organised with full cooperation from local partners to meet demand from Indian nationals.

The mission expressed particular concern for the safety of applicants attending these events, adding that the disturbances hinder essential services intended to support Indian citizens abroad.

Sharing the images of the event, the Indian Mission said, "Despite these efforts by anti-India elements, our Consulate was able to issue more than 1000 life certificates to the Indian and Canadian applicants."

The incident took place outside the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton.

Videos of the incident, widely shared online, showed a mob with flags associated with pro-Khalistan groups attacking people outside the temple.

Reports indicated that a group of pro-Khalistan supporters were staging a demonstration to mark the anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots when the attack occurred.

The incident has added a new stress point to the already strained relationship between India and Canada, as Ottawa has consistently dismissed New Delhi’s calls for strict measures against Khalistani extremists in Canada. Instead, Canada has accused India of targeting Khalistani individuals within its borders, escalating a diplomatic standoff.

Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the violence, calling it unacceptable. "The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely." He thanked the police for "swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident," he said.

Source: India Today