Toronto Hindu Temple President Fears for Safety Amid Rising Tensions

Jeff Lal, president of a Toronto-area Hindu temple, has requested police security after receiving threats following a recent attack on another temple by pro-Khalistan activists. Lal, targeted by the group Sikhs for Justice, expressed concern for his family’s safety amid rising tensions and awaits a response from authorities.

Jeff Lal, president of the Bharat Mata Mandir in Brampton, Canada, has requested police protection following threats linked to a recent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir by pro-Khalistan radicals. In a letter to Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Lal expressed fear for his life and safety after receiving numerous anonymous calls threatening both him and his temple. Lal, originally from Fiji, highlighted the increased concerns for his family as well.

The threats surfaced after Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a secessionist group, posted on social media, accusing Lal of "offering free swords to attack Sikhs" and calling for his arrest. SFJ also described Lal as an associate of Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, a claim which Lal denied, clarifying that he had left the Conservative Party earlier in 2024.

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Despite his outreach, Lal is still awaiting a response from local authorities. He emphasized the urgency of additional security to protect both his family and the temple community amid heightened communal tensions.