The Federation of Gujarati Associations, represented by Chief Jagdish Patel, has recently voiced its strong concerns regarding the rising tide of anti-Hindu sentiment in Canada.
This comes in the wake of a troubling attack on Hindu devotees at a temple, which has sparked outrage within the community. In a letter addressed to Pierre Poilievre, the Leader of the Opposition and Conservative Party, Patel highlighted the urgent need for political intervention to combat hate crimes directed at Indian-Canadians.
In his statement on social media platform X, Patel underscored the alarming increase in anti-Hindu hate crimes that jeopardise the safety and freedoms of Hindus in Canada. He expressed gratitude for Poilievre’s support for Hindus globally, but he emphasised the pressing issue of inaction regarding the challenges faced by Hindus within Canada.
Patel's remarks reflect a growing frustration within the community as they contend with vandalism, desecration of sacred spaces, and intimidation from extremist groups. This violence, he argues, not only threatens their places of worship but also instils fear among community members.
Patel’s letter painted a vivid picture of the Hindu community in Canada, which is diverse and includes individuals from various backgrounds, including the Caribbean, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, and India.
He pointed out the community's significant contributions to the prosperity of Canada as dedicated and law-abiding citizens. However, despite their valuable contributions, the voices of Hindus are often overlooked, leading to a sense of marginalisation.
One of the most poignant points in the letter was the recent cancellation of the Diwali celebration on Parliament Hill. This event is a cornerstone of unity for nearly a million Indo-Canadians, including those from Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, and Muslim backgrounds.
Patel argued that the cancellation of this celebration not only diminishes the festive spirit but also contradicts Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism. He expressed concern that unchecked extremist ideologies pose a threat not just to temple-goers but also to younger generations who face discrimination and divisive rhetoric in various aspects of their lives, including schools and workplaces.
The letter urged Poilievre to take a strong stance against the targeted attacks on Hindus and called for immediate, bipartisan efforts to protect the community.
Patel suggested several measures, including tougher legislation on hate crimes, enhanced support for local law enforcement, and educational initiatives aimed at fostering understanding among Canadians of all backgrounds.
Patel’s appeal is rooted in a desire for justice, respect, and inclusivity, principles that he believes should be upheld by all Canadian leaders. The Federation of Gujarati Associations hopes that by bringing attention to these pressing issues, they can work towards a safer environment for all Hindus in Canada, where they can freely practise their faith and contribute to the nation’s diversity without fear.
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