In a shocking incident, Khalistani terrorists reportedly targeted Satish Kumar, the president of Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Surrey, Canada on December 27. The attackers shot at least 14 rounds of fire at the house of Kumar’s son.

The incident occurred on December 27 at approximately 8:03 AM in the 14900 block of 80 Avenue. According to a statement from the Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the targeted residence belongs to the elder son of Satish Kumar, the president of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey.

At least 14 bullets were fired at his son's house during the incident, Satish Kumar told India Today.

“I can’t say whether [the attack] was by Khalistanis or some extortionist. Police is investigating the case,” said Kumar, adding that the temple was also targeted by alleged Khalistani activists thrice in the past.

According to a statement from RCMP, no one was injured during the incident. However, the police added that the residence involved "sustained damage consistent with bullet holes."

"Police remained in the area, examining the scene, speaking with witnesses and canvassing the neighbourhood for CCTV footage. The Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has conducted of the investigation. Officers are still working to determine the motive of this incident," the statement added. 

The police asked that anyone with further details regarding the event, including dash cam footage, get in touch with them.

The Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has taken charge of the investigation and is working to ascertain the motive behind this targeted attack.

Violence against Hindu communities in Canada has considerably increased. As the number of Khalistani groups in the nation has increased, temples have become more frequently the target of attacks and destruction. India has been pressuring Canada to take action against these groups.

In September, the Shri Mata Bhameshwari Durga temple in Surrey, Canada, experienced an incident of defacement where anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti was found on its outer walls. Recent incidents have also involved vandalism at temples located in Brampton and the Greater Toronto area.

In light of these alarming trends and the growing strain on diplomatic relations between India and Canada, community leaders are putting pressure on law enforcement to provide more funding for the protection of these temples.

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