Hate graffiti near gurdwara in Canada

Will hold responsible accountable: Calgary cops

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, October 26

Roads leading to the entrance of a gurdwara in Calgary on Monday were sprayed with hateful graffiti, inviting widespread condemnation from members of the Sikh community.

The gurdwara’s security camera footage failed to capture those behind the hateful messages. In 2016, the same site was vandalised with swastikas. “Our diversity unit is working closely with the community. This action is unacceptable and we are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to hold the responsible parties accountable,” the Calgary police said.

Dasmesh Cultural Centre, which runs NE Calgary Sikh Gurdwara, tweeted: “This display of racism is hurtful… all of us must come together and show support to all people regardless of background or beliefs”.

The World Sikh Organisation (WSO) of Canada, too, condemned the incident. MP from Calgary Forest Lawn Jasraj Singh Hallan tweeted “I stand by the Sikh Society of Calgary in condemning this act of hatred. Canadians always stand against intolerance”.

Rajan Sahwney, Transport Minister and Calgary North East MLA tweeted: “I am disgusted by this behaviour. @DashmeshC, you have been a beacon of hope for so many, particularly during Covid… keep inspiring, educating and encouraging others!”

Last month, racist graffiti was spray-painted on an under-construction gurdwara in New York.