Wave of religious vandalism in Canada: Khalistani graffiti defaces Gurdwara and Hindu temple, sparks outrage

Pro-Khalistan graffiti found at Surrey temple as Vancouver Gurdwara also targeted in Canada

In a disturbing escalation of targeted attacks on religious institutions in Canada, a Gurdwara in Vancouver and the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, British Columbia, were defaced with pro-Khalistan graffiti, drawing sharp condemnation from community leaders and public officials.

Images circulated online showed temple walls defaced with slogans like “Khalistan Zindabad”, along with threats reportedly aimed at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Vancouver Police Department has confirmed an active investigation into the incident.

Condemnation from Indian-origin MP Chandra Arya

Indian-origin Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya strongly condemned the desecration, calling it “yet another chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism” in Canada.

“The attacks on Hindu temples that began several years ago continue unabated today,” Arya posted on social media platform X. “This latest graffiti on a Hindu temple is a chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism — well-organized, well-funded, and backed by significant political clout.”

Arya added that such elements are not only intimidating the Hindu community but also silencing the voices of moderation and disrupting social harmony.

Vandalism at Ross Street Gurdwara in Vancouver

Prior to the temple incident, the Ross Street Gurdwara operated by the Khalsa Diwan Society (KDS) in Vancouver was similarly vandalized with anti-India and pro-Khalistan slogans. The KDS, in a public statement, denounced the act as part of “an ongoing campaign by extremist forces” aimed at sowing fear and division.

“A small group of Sikh separatists, advocating for Khalistan, defaced our sacred walls with divisive slogans like ‘Khalistan Zindabad’,” the KDS said.
“This attack is not just on our Gurdwara — it is an attack on peace, unity, and the very social fabric of Canada.”

They called upon all Canadians, regardless of religion or background, to stand united against extremism and uphold the shared values of respect, tolerance, and harmony.

Call to action: ‘Silence is no longer an option’

Arya urged the Hindu and Sikh communities in Canada to rise above fear and demand decisive action from local and federal authorities.

“Silence is no longer an option,” Arya said. “We must act collectively to ensure the safety and dignity of all religious communities in Canada.”

A pattern of religious vandalism in Canada

This is not an isolated incident. In early 2024, the Sri Krishna Brundavana Temple in the Greater Toronto Area was similarly defaced. In 2023, the defacement of a temple in Brampton had drawn international attention and condemnation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada,” PM Modi had said. “Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.”

As tensions grow and extremist groups grow bolder, community leaders are calling on Canadian authorities to act firmly and swiftly to uphold the country’s longstanding commitment to multiculturalism and religious freedom.

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