Another Hindu temple in Canada has been defaced with pro-Khalistan graffiti, adding to a string of similar incidents that have sparked concern among Indian communities abroad. This time, the Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Surrey, a well-known religious site in British Columbia, was targeted. The word “Khalistan” was spray-painted in bold black letters on its white walls, shocking devotees and residents.
Indian-origin Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya strongly condemned the act, calling it part of a disturbing trend. He said those responsible are not just random vandals, but a “well-organized, well-funded” group with growing political backing. “This is yet another chilling reminder of the rising influence of Khalistani extremism,” Arya said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Just days before this incident, another case of pro-Khalistan graffiti was reported at a Sikh temple in Vancouver. That case included threatening messages directed at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Such incidents of temple vandalism are not new. Since 2022, there have been at least a dozen such cases across Canada. These attacks have been especially troubling as the country heads toward elections, raising fears about rising extremism and religious divisions.
Indian Prime Minister Modi has previously slammed the Canadian government for what he called a “deliberate” failure to act. After a 2023 temple defacement in Brampton, he had said such acts were not only cowardly but also aimed at scaring Indian diplomats and the larger Indian diaspora. He urged Canada to protect religious places and maintain law and order.
The ongoing tensions between India and Canada only make matters worse. Relations hit a low point last year when Canada accused India of involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and known supporter of the Khalistan movement. India denied any role, saying Canada provided no solid proof.
With nearly 1.7 million people of Indian origin living in Canada and trade between the two countries valued in billions, these tensions could have far-reaching effects. As investigations continue, the Indian community in Canada is left feeling uneasy, hoping authorities will take stronger action to stop these hateful attacks.
The Surrey temple defacement is a harsh reminder of how distant political movements are now sparking unrest in peaceful neighbourhoods.
