Indian-Americans in California’s Silicon Valley held a protest rally, urging global action to address human rights abuses against Hindu minorities in Canada and Bangladesh. The demonstrators called for accountability from both governments and condemned rising violence against Hindu communities.
Calls to End Violence
Protesters chanted slogans such as “Stop Khalistani terrorism, protect Canadian-Hindus” and “Stop Islamist terrorism, protect Bangladeshi-Hindus,” highlighting their concerns about targeted attacks. The rally also shed light on recent incidents of violence at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha temple, where Khalistani groups reportedly assaulted worshippers during Diwali celebrations.
Videos shared during the rally depicted the attacks, which community leaders described as horrifying. “Men, women, and children celebrating Diwali were hounded by goons,” read a press release issued by the organizers. Concerns were also raised about alleged police inaction and infiltration by Khalistan supporters.
Criticism of Canadian Government
Participants expressed frustration with what they perceive as the Canadian government’s failure to protect Hindu citizens. “Freedom of violence is being dressed up as freedom of expression in Canada,” the press release stated. The protesters voiced a loss of faith in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership, accusing his administration of failing to uphold the basic human rights of Canadian Hindus.
Focus on Bangladesh
The rally also addressed the plight of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, where protesters decried Islamist violence and the lack of security for Hindu communities. They urged international leaders to ensure the safety of religious minorities and hold perpetrators accountable.
Advocacy from CoHNA
Pushpita Prasad, a representative of the Coalition of Hindus in North America (CoHNA), highlighted threats faced by Hindu activists in Canada. She noted that members of her Canadian team have been targeted and profiled by Sikhs for Justice, an organization banned in India but operating freely in Canada and the U.S.
Call for Global Action
The rally underscored the need for global solidarity and stronger governmental action to address these issues. Organizers urged officials in Canada, Bangladesh, and other nations to prioritize the protection of Hindu minorities and take decisive steps to prevent further violence.