Canada Hindu temple attack: Brampton bans protest near places of worship

Brampton City Council has approved a bylaw prohibiting protests near places of worship, following violent clashes at near a Hindu temple earlier this month. The legislation, passed unanimously, bans demonstrations within 100 metres of any place of worship that might intimidate attendees or restrict access. Violators face fines ranging from $500 to $100,000.

Mayor Patrick Brown said that the bylaw aims to protect religious freedom while balancing the right to protest. “This is not about political protest,” Brown said. “It’s about ensuring that whether you go to a mandir, gurdwara, mosque, synagogue, or church, you have the right to pray without fear, intimidation, or violence.” He added that legal experts had confirmed the bylaw aligns with constitutional protections, striking a balance between the rights to protest and religious freedom.

The move follows an attack outside a consular camp hosted at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton on 3 November. The incident, described as a "violent disruption" , prompted widespread condemnation, including from the Indian High Commission in Canada. The consular camp, held in collaboration with the temple, saw protesters allegedly harass attendees, including women and children. The Hindu Canadian Foundation shared footage of the incident, blaming Khalistani extremists for the violence.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the attack, calling it "unacceptable" and reaffirming the importance of religious freedom. “Every Canadian has the right to practise their faith freely and safely,” Trudeau wrote on X, commending Peel Regional Police for their swift response.

The Indian high commission also criticised the disruption, calling it a threat to the safety of applicants and organisers of the camp. The consulate cited similar disruptions in Vancouver and Surrey, raising concerns over a rising trend of religious intolerance in Canada.

Mayor Brown, addressing the urgency of the issue, had earlier called for legal measures to protect places of worship. “Places of worship should be safe spaces free of violence and intimidation,” he posted on X. The bylaw is expected to provide such protections, ensuring that worshippers across Brampton can practise their faith without fear.