Three Arrested After Protests Erupt at Hindu Temple in Surrey, B.C.

Three individuals were arrested in Surrey, B.C., on Sunday after confrontations outside the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir Hindu temple, where Indian consular officials were present. RCMP officers were on-site to maintain order as hundreds of protesters with opposing views gathered, leading to clashes. The protest saw individuals waving Khalistan flags and others displaying India’s national flag across the street.

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke expressed disappointment over the incident, calling for calm and unity within the community. B.C. Premier David Eby also voiced concern, affirming collaboration with law enforcement to ensure public safety.

The Vedic Hindu Cultural Society, managing the temple, condemned the protest, requesting an inquiry and action against alleged police mistreatment. Temple officials are considering establishing a "buffer zone" for future events, following a similar measure enacted at Vancouver's Ross Street gurdwara.

The incident follows similar tensions in Ontario, where three individuals were arrested after violence between pro-Khalistan and Hindu groups. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attacks, urging Canadian authorities to maintain peace and safety for all.