In a recent incident in Surrey, Canada, shots were fired at the residence of an Bharat-origin man, the son of Satish Kumar, president of Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is actively investigating the incident that occurred on December 27 in the early morning at the residence located in the 14900 block of 80 Avenue. Fortunately, no one was injured during the shooting, but the residence sustained damage consistent with bullet holes.
Constable Parmbir Kahlon, the Media Relations Officer for Surrey Police, provided details on the incident. The Surrey RCMP responded to a report of shots fired around 8:03 am and immediately began examining the scene, speaking with witnesses, and canvassing the neighborhood for potential CCTV footage. The General Investigation Unit of the Surrey RCMP is leading the investigation, and officers are working to determine the motive behind the incident. The police urge anyone with information, including dash cam footage, to come forward and contact the Surrey RCMP.
While the investigation is ongoing, the identity of the perpetrators remains unknown. The police have not confirmed any connection between the attack and recent threats received by Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey.
Concerns have been raised about the safety of Hindu temples in the region. In November, Chandra Arya, an Indian-origin Canadian Member of Parliament, shared a video claiming that Pro Khalistani supporters in Surrey intended to create trouble at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir. Arya highlighted instances of hate crimes against Hindu-Canadians, noting that Hindu temples have been targeted multiple times in recent years.
The issue extends beyond Surrey, as incidents of vandalism and anti-India graffiti at Hindu temples have been reported in various parts of Canada. In August, a Hindu temple was vandalized with Khalistan referendum posters, while in April, the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Windsor faced anti-India graffiti. In February, the Ram Mandir in Mississauga was vandalized, and in January, a Hindu temple in Brampton was defaced with anti-India graffiti, sparking outrage within the Indian community. The incidents raise concerns about the safety and security of religious institutions and the need for vigilance against hate crimes.
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