Canada: Khalistani extremists attacked Hindus and disrupted Deepawali celebrations in Mississauga

On November 12, individuals with Khalistani affiliations residing in Canada disrupted Diwali celebrations for Indians, particularly Hindus, at Westwood Mall’s parking lot in the city of Mississauga. Social media videos depicted pro-Khalistani elements chanting “Khalistan Zindabad” slogans and throwing refuse, possibly including stones, at Indians partaking in the Deepawali festivities.

According to reports, this marks the second consecutive year in which Khalistani elements have disrupted Diwali celebrations. Peel Regional Police verified receiving information about a “disturbance” in the mall’s parking lot shortly after 9 PM (local time).

Local leaders, including Carolyn Parrish, Councilor for Ward 5 in the City of Mississauga, voiced their dissatisfaction with what they deemed a “poor response” from the police. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she expressed, “Disgusting lack of preparedness on the part of Westwood Square and an extremely poor response by Peel Regional Police. Having a local community police station in the plaza has done nothing to improve the life of the residents of Malton. Major disappointment all around.”

In a post on X, Peel Regional Police stated, “Peel Regional Police is currently investigating the incident that took place on Sunday, November 12, 2023, at Westwood Square Mall. We are implementing the necessary measures and collaborating with the City of Mississauga on any additional actions deemed necessary. For inquiries related to by-law enforcement, kindly contact the City of Mississauga By-law Enforcement.” They also provided contact information for the public to share any information regarding the incident.

In October 2022, a comparable incident unfolded in Mississauga. A video capturing the altercation surfaced on social media, depicting a clash between a group of Khalistan supporters and Indians. The confrontation involved hundreds of individuals engaged in face-offs and chanting slogans. As reported by the Mississauga-based online news outlet Insauga, the skirmish took place in Malton.

The video illustrates police officers endeavoring to maintain distance between crowds amid a Diwali celebration. One faction, identified as Khalistan referendum supporters, displayed banners and chanted slogans like ‘Raj Karega Khalsa,’ while the opposing group of Indians raised slogans opposing Khalistan, such as ‘Khalistan Murdabad.’ Local media reports indicate that fireworks were ignited in the parking lot of Westwood Mall.