Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau finds himself in the eye of a growing storm, facing criticism both at home and abroad over his government’s handling of recent attacks on Hindu temples in Canada. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke his silence on the issue, urging Trudeau to address these targeted attacks and ensure the safety of all communities in a diverse and democratic Canada. Modi’s statement reflects a concern that resonates globally: what kind of Canada does Trudeau envision, and why does it seem that some Canadians receive more protection than others? This issue arises shortly after Trudeau accuses India regarding the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. While Trudeau argued Canada’s right to protect its citizens, it’s worth examining the inconsistencies in his approach. The question looming large is whether Trudeau is willing to extend that same protection to Canadian Hindus, who are equally entitled to safety, free from harassment or targeted violence. The granting of Canadian citizenship to Khalistani separatists like Nijjar has raised eyebrows for years. The very presence of Khalistani extremists in Canada, often freely advocating for anti-India agendas, has been a sore point between the two countries. While Canada embraces freedom of expression, Trudeau’s government has been largely silent on the anti-India rhetoric from these groups. Now, with the attacks on Hindu temples escalating, many are questioning if Trudeau’s stance on religious freedom and community safety is selective.
In recent weeks, videos have surfaced showing Canadian police allegedly acting with bias in dealing with Hindu communities. One incident drew troubling comparisons to the 2020 death of George Floyd in the U.S., underscoring concerns about law enforcement’s treatment of minority groups. In response to the public outcry, Trudeau suspended the officer involved, but to many, this seemed a reactive measure rather than a proactive commitment to addressing systemic issues. The Indian government’s strong condemnation was echoed by India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, who has publicly expressed dismay over the Canadian government’s handling of these incidents. Australia has also joined India in denouncing the attacks on Hindu temples in Canada, signalling an emerging international consensus that Trudeau’s government is failing to protect religious freedoms and public safety equally. The global community is watching, and Trudeau’s lackluster response may soon become a broader diplomatic issue. The silence from Trudeau’s administration on these matters, contrasted with his swift response to allegations against India, suggests a troubling double standard. With international allies like Australia speaking out, Trudeau risks damaging Canada’s reputation as a defender of pluralism and tolerance. Should a more conservative U.S. administration, potentially under Donald Trump, take power, Trudeau could find himself further isolated on the global stage. In a multicultural society, leaders must ensure that all communities feel protected and valued. The Hindu community in Canada is beginning to rally for justice and equality, seeking assurances that they, too, will be treated fairly by law enforcement and government officials. If Trudeau truly values the rights of all Canadians, it’s time for his administration to step up, address the targeted attacks on Hindu temples, and take meaningful action against any discriminatory practices within law enforcement. For Trudeau, this may be a defining moment. Will he stand up for the rights of all Canadians, or will he continue to turn a blind eye, compromising Canada’s cherished values of diversity and inclusion? The world is watching—and so are Canadian voters.