vancouver-gurdwara-vandalised-with-separatist-slogan

A gurdwara in Vancouver has been defaced with pro-Khalistan graffiti, sparking concern within the local Sikh community and drawing strong condemnation from its leadership.

 

The incident occurred at the Ross Street Gurdwara, one of the city’s oldest Sikh religious sites, and is being investigated by the Vancouver Police Department. Officers responded after reports surfaced of graffiti sprayed on the gurdwara’s walls. No suspects have yet been identified.

 

Police spokesperson Sgt Steve Addison confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. “At this time, we do not have a suspect,” Addison said, as quoted by the Vancouver Sun.

 

 

The Khalsa Diwan Society, which manages the gurdwara, attributed the act of vandalism to a fringe group of Sikh separatists promoting Khalistan — a movement seeking to establish a separate Sikh state. In a statement, the society said the act is part of a larger pattern of intimidation carried out by “extremist forces.”

“This act is part of an ongoing campaign by extremist forces that seem to instil fear and division within the Canadian Sikh community,” the society stated. “Their actions undermine the values of inclusivity, respect, and mutual support that are foundational to both Sikhism and Canadian society.”

 

The society has urged all Canadians to unite in the face of divisive tactics and stand firm against extremism. They added that the incident does not reflect the views of the broader Sikh community, which remains committed to peaceful coexistence.

 

 

There have been growing concerns about the impact of transnational separatist politics on Sikh communities in Canada, particularly following previous incidents involving pro-Khalistan slogans and banners seen at various protests.

 

The defacement comes amid a period of heightened diplomatic strain between India and Canada, in part due to disagreements over the Khalistan movement and its supporters abroad.

 

Authorities are appealing for any information from the public that could assist in identifying those responsible for the graffiti.

No arrests have been made, and police have not disclosed whether surveillance footage is being reviewed as part of the investigation.