Canada police arrest Indian-origin man for 'inciting hatred' over Hindu Sabha temple protests

Peel Regional Police in Canada have arrested a Toronto resident of Indian origin, in connection with protests at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Mandir on November 4.

Ranendra Lal Banerjee, 57, faces charges of "public incitement of hatred" under section 319 (1) of Canada’s Criminal Code.

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In a video statement posted on X on Thursday, police officer Tyler Bell said, "Following the demonstrations, several videos' started to circulate online which captured several offences taking place including a video of an individual using a loudspeaker inciting violence and hatred, as the result of the ongoing investigations into the offences, peer police have arrested Ranendra Lal Banerjee."

Peel Regional Police also issued warrants for two others, 24-year-old Armaan Gahlot from Kitchener andArpit, 22,who face charges of threatening to cause death or bodily harm, conspiring to commit assault with a weapon, and conspiring to commit mischief.

“As investigators make attempts to locate, they are encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn themselves into police,” the Peel police stated.

"Any acts of violence, threats of violence or vandalism will not be tolerated. We appreciate the cooperation of those who remained peaceful during these events," the police added.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir, calling it a "cowardly attempt to intimidate" New Delhi’s diplomats in Canada. Modi said that India expects Canadian authorities to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.

Following the protests, the Indian consulate in Toronto has decided to cancel some upcoming facilitation camps, citing inadequate security assurances from Canadian authorities.

This decision, shared on social media on Wednesday, came after Canadian security agencies told the Indian consulate about their limited ability to guarantee sufficient protection at these events.

Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah had also sent a letter to acting Indian consul-general Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh, regarding rising tensions surrounding consular camps held at religious sites in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

(With inputs from agencies)