In its formal reply to the Hinduphobia petition presented before the House of Commons, the Canadian Government asserted its stance by stating that it “rejects all forms of hate and discrimination.”
However, the response, conveyed by Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Kamal Khera and endorsed by Parliamentary Secretary Sameer Zuberi, has left the petitioners dissatisfied.
Vijay Jain, the petitioner who initiated e-4507 and resides in Brampton, expressed frustration, noting that the government’s response did not align with the petition’s requests. The petition urged the recognition of “Hinduphobia” in the glossary of terms within the Human Rights Code, defining it as anti-Hindu prejudice and discrimination. It also called for an acknowledgment of Hinduphobia as denial, negation, prejudice, or vilification against Hindus, Hinduism, or Hinduness, and the government’s commitment to raising awareness and addressing systemic and institutional Hinduphobia.
Jain pointed out a discrepancy in the treatment of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, which are addressed more comprehensively in Canada’s human rights code compared to growing Hinduphobia. He underscored that such disparity indicates systemic discrimination against Hindus in Canada. Despite efforts by Jain and other community groups to secure a meeting with Minister Khera, no appointment has been granted.
The government’s response expressed gratitude to the petitioner for bringing attention to the concerns about the increasing negative stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination faced by Hindus in Canada.
The petition garnered significant support, amassing 25,794 signatures, far exceeding the required 500 for triggering an official government response. When introduced in the House of Commons on November 3, Conservative Party MP Melissa Lantsman highlighted the challenges faced by Canadian Hindus, including negative stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination in various aspects of life.
The petition gained momentum following a video released by the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) targeting Canadian Hindus of Indian origin. The video, featuring SFJ’s legal counsel Gurpatwant Pannun, went viral and contributed to the growing discourse on Hinduphobia in Canada. Pannun urged “Indo-Hindus” to leave Canada, accusing them of supporting the suppression of speech and expression of pro-Khalistan Sikhs and endorsing violence.
Since the summer, there have been multiple instances of temples being desecrated with pro-Khalistan graffiti or posters attacking India’s senior diplomats in Canada. These acts have brought the issue of Hinduphobia to the forefront, recognized by Canadian leaders, with Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre condemning such behavior as unacceptable in April.
