Pro-Khalistan graffiti defaces gurdwara in Canada
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Toronto: A prominent Sikh gurdwara in Vancouver, Canada, was vandalised with pro-Khalistan graffiti, triggering outrage among members of the local Sikh community.
The incident occurred overnight at the Khalsa Diwan Society (KDS) gurdwara, widely known as the Ross Street gurdwara. On Saturday morning, the gurdwara administration discovered the word "Khalistan" spray-painted at multiple locations along the wall surrounding the temple’s parking lot. Images of the graffiti were shared on the gurdwara’s official X handle.
The act of vandalism came to light on the same day Surrey hosted the world’s largest Vaisakhi parade, deepening the shock and disappointment felt by the community.
The Vancouver Police Department has launched an investigation, according to reports in Canadian media.
In a strongly worded statement, the Khalsa Diwan Society condemned the act, calling it a deliberate attempt to sow fear and division. “A small group of Sikh separatists, advocating for Khalistan, defaced our sacred walls with divisive slogans like 'Khalistan Zindabad’,” the gurdwara said.
“This act is part of an ongoing campaign by extremist forces that seek to instil fear and division within the Canadian Sikh community. Their actions undermine the values of inclusivity, respect, and mutual support that are foundational to both Sikhism and Canadian society,” it added.
The timing of the incident was described as especially painful, coinciding with Khalsa Sajna Diwas — a significant day in Sikh history that symbolises unity and resilience.
“These extremists are undermining the dreams and sacrifices of our elders, who worked tirelessly to build a thriving community in a country that celebrates diversity and freedom,” the statement read. “Their actions seek to divide us, contrary to the unity and peace we hold dear as Canadians. We cannot — and will not — let these forces of division succeed.”
The Ross Street Gurdwara had organised its own Vaisakhi parade the previous weekend and had barred pro-Khalistan groups from participating in the event.
Speaking to CTV News, KDS gurdwara spokesperson Jag Sanghera described the vandalism as “extensive.”
Established in 1906, the Ross Street Gurdwara is one of the oldest and most historically significant Sikh institutions in Canada.
With IANS inputs