Local Indian residents share concerns after recent Brampton temple attacks

Pro-Khalistan supporters wave their flag. 

By Sagardeep Dhammu

BELLEVILLE – Members of the local Indian community are reacting after a Nov. 3 attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton by Khalistani separatists. 

The initial attack led to widespread outrage. It also led to other clashes between Hindus and Sikhs in cities like Mississauga and Surrey.

Although Belleville and Quinte region has not been affected, some Indian residents of the area say they have been on the edge ever since.

Rushant Gilitwala is a resident of Belleville who is a Hindu by religion.

“I don’t think that was something good that happened. Usually, I have seen people from Hindu background going to Gurudwaras (a place of worship for Sikh religion) and Sikh people going to Hindu temples so this might affect the people who regularly visit temples and gurudwaras irrespective of their cultural background,” said Gilitwala.

Lakshay Vashishta is another Indian resident of Belleville. He is also Hindu.

“I think these attacks were very inappropriate. Protests are meant to be peaceful and not violent. Because of these protests, many Hindus are refraining from going to the Gurudwara in Belleville, which is like the only Indian temple here in Belleville, so this is affecting us a lot. The worst part is it’s only because of a few people that the entire community suffers backlash.”, said Vashishta.

Lakshay Vashista, a resident of Belleville, expressed his concerns

Amritpal Singh openly admits to being a Khalistan supporter.

“These protests are going to keep happening until we are given what we deserve. Most people are unaware, but Sikhs have contributed a lot to India and its growth as a nation, but has failed to fulfill the needs of our community. They have disrespected us from a long time. Our community deserves to get its own governance and has asked for it for a long time.”, said Singh.

Singh was asked about the aftermath of the attacks, the violence, and the effect it may have in the region.

“I think these fights only initiate because we are not allowed to protest in peace. Belleville is not a very large city, it’s just a small town, so I don’t think there is going to be a major change in the lifestyle of students or Indians here, but anything can happen.”