Canada court restricts Khalistani protest near temple hosting consular camp
What's the story
A Canadian court granted an injunction restraining Khalistani protesters from assembling within 100 meters of the Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Scarborough, Toronto. The decision was taken to maintain the safety and sanctity of the temple premises during an Indian consular camp on November 30, 2024. The Superior Court of Justice in Toronto, Ontario, granted the injunction from 8:00am to 6:00pm on the date.
Gratitude expressed
Temple society expresses gratitude for court's decision
The Laxmi Narayan Mandir Hindu Cultural Society thanked the court for enabling the consular camp. The temple said it held the last consular camp of the season, where nearly 250 life certificates were issued to elderly Indians. While no more camps are planned this season, certificates will still be available at the Indian Consulate during working hours.
Disruptions reported
Court's order follows disruptions at previous consular camps
The court's order comes after Khalistani mobs had disrupted consular camps in Brampton and Surrey earlier in November. The attacks raised security concerns and led to the cancelation of other planned camps across Canada. The pro-Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) had protested against the presence of Indian consular officials at these events.
Community response
Local police and community support court's decision
The Hindu Cultural Society thanked the local police for executing the court's order. "We extend a heartfelt gratitude to the Toronto Police Service and 42 Division for their outstanding support," the society said in a statement. Members of the Indo-Canadian community welcomed the court's decision, stressing it was important for religious freedom and peaceful assembly. The National Alliance of Indo-Canadians (NAIC) demanded nationwide implementation of such orders.
Twitter Post
Consulate organized the last consular camp of the season
Consulate organized the last Consular Camp of the season at Laxminarayan Mandir, Scarborough. Close to 250 life certificates were issued to the elderly.
— IndiainToronto (@IndiainToronto) November 30, 2024
Though there are no more scheduled camps in this season, Certificates would continue to be issued at the Consulate during… pic.twitter.com/flFbTu3aca