Demonstration highlights friction between Sikhs and Hindus in Brampton

Members of a Brampton Hindu temple say they are thankful that protesters were forced to keep their distance, but believe they should not be able to target their place of worship.

The board of directors of Brampton Triveni Mandir issued a statement yesterday (April 5) following the demonstration organized by Sikhs for Justice at the temple on Chinguacousy Road near Queen Street West.

“We extend our gratitude to the PRP for their continued presence and assistance during this event. The protestors were kept at a reasonable distance away from the temple, however their speakers and megaphones continued to be a source of nuisance,” the statement reads.

Peel Regional Police kept protesters behind metal barricades as they waved the yellow flags of Khalistan, the homeland that Sikhs are demanding be carved out of India, which is resisted by a politically controlled Hindu-supported government.

The demonstrators remained on site for two hours shouting their slogans, but otherwise reports indicate the protest was peaceful and that there were no arrests.

Members of the temple say that despite Brampton bylaws meant to keep protestors a certain distance away from places of worship, they should not be subject to “noise harassment.”

“The persistent use of high-powered speakers and megaphones is a form of intimidation that physical distance alone does not resolve,” the statement continues, adding that safety continues to be a key concern at these types of demonstrations and that protective zones must be strictly enforced.