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The Government of India has taken a firm stance on the recent vandalisation of a temple and has swiftly engaged with Canadian authorities to address the issue. The incident, which occurred in Edmonton, has sparked outrage and concern within the Indian community both in Canada and abroad.
In response to the vandalism, Indian officials have communicated their concerns directly to Canadian authorities, urging them to take prompt action to investigate the incident thoroughly and bring those responsible to justice. The temple holds significant religious and cultural importance to the Indian community, and the desecration of such a sacred place has been met with condemnation and calls for swift resolution.
MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India expects the local authorities to take strong action against those behind the act. Jaiswal stated, “We have strongly taken up the matter with Canadian authorities, both here in Delhi and in Ottawa. We condemn the vandalization. We expect the local authorities to take swift and strong action against those responsible.”
“These attacks against temples have become a recurring occurrence and are done with a purpose that is not very difficult to fathom. We have seen several such incidents in recent times in Canada. The lack of action against the perpetrators has further emboldened such criminal elements. Those advocating and responsible for extremism and violence need to be brought to justice, or else the rule of law and respect for pluralism in Canada will continue to be severely undermined,” he said. Jaiswal’s remarks come after the vandalisation of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Edmonton.
The Indian diaspora in Canada has been vocal in condemning the act of vandalism and has called for unity and solidarity in the face of such incidents. Community leaders and organizations have urged local authorities to ensure that steps are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and to foster greater understanding and respect among all communities.