Guidelines for Hindu Canadians Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate following Islamist terror attack targeting Hindus in Pahalgam on 22 April 2025 , Hindu Canadians may face increased risks of harassment, discrimination, or violence due to rising anti-Hindu sentiment in certain contexts. The Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF) is steadfast in its commitment to protecting and supporting the Hindu community in Canada, advocating for safety, unity, and resilience. HCF is releasing essential guidelines to ensure community well-being and public awareness, while reaffirming HCF’s unwavering stand against terrorism and its dedication to preserving humanity.

The Hindu Canadian Foundation’s Commitment

The Hindu Canadian Foundation stands firm in the fight against terror, condemning all forms of terrorism, terror camps, and terrorist activities worldwide. We believe that terrorism, including the horrific Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 Hindu lives, is a crime against humanity that must be eradicated to preserve peace, justice, and the dignity of all people. HCF joins global calls for decisive action to dismantle terrorist networks and ideologies, as demonstrated by our support for vigils like the one organized in Toronto on April 27, 2025, where over 500 Canadians demanded accountability for Pakistan-backed violence. Our mission is to foster a safe, inclusive Canada where Hindu Canadians can thrive without fear, while promoting solidarity with all communities to combat extremism.

Guidelines for Hindu Canadians.

To navigate the current challenges, Hindu Canadians are encouraged to adopt the following proactive measures to ensure safety, strengthen community bonds, and respond effectively to potential risks.

1. Enhance Community Solidarity

• Connect with Hindu Organizations: Engage with HCF, Canadian Hindu Volunteers, Vishwa Jain Sangathan Canada and others for resources, support, and advocacy. These groups offer guidance, legal assistance, and community events to reinforce cultural pride and resilience.

2. Stay Informed and Advocate

• Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with Canadian laws protecting against religious and ethnic discrimination, as outlined in the Canadian Human Rights Code. Resources from HCF or the Canadian Human Rights Commission can clarify your protections.

• Support Advocacy Efforts: Support advocacy efforts by Hindu Canadian Foundation and other Hindu Orgs e.g Back initiatives like Petition E-4507, which calls for action against Hinduphobia and hate crimes.

• Engage with Media: Counter negative stereotypes by sharing stories of Hindu contributions to Canada.

3. Ensure Personal and Community Safety

• Report Incidents Promptly: Document and report any harassment, vandalism, or hate speech to local police, providing evidence like photos or screenshots. HCF emphasizes the importance of reporting to hold perpetrators accountable.

• Contact Authorities: Reach out to local law enforcement for support in cases of serious threats.

• Stay Vigilant but Calm: Avoid engaging with provocative rhetoric, especially from extremist groups.

The Pahalgam attack, attributed to Pakistan-backed Terrorists groups, has intensified India-Pakistan tensions, with ripple effects in Canada. Incidents like the 2024 Brampton temple attack and the 2025 Toronto pro-Khalistani parade calling for Hindu deportation highlight the risks of anti-Hindu sentiment, often fueled by extremist rhetoric. Hindu children may face bullying tied to these events, with taunts about “Hindutva”.

HCF’s Stand Against Terrorism

The Hindu Canadian Foundation unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms. The Pahalgam attack, which targeted Hindu tourists with chilling precision, underscores the urgent need to destroy terrorist networks and their infrastructure, including training camps like those struck in India’s Operation Sindoor. HCF stands in solidarity with global efforts to combat terrorism, as expressed during the Toronto vigil, where diverse communities united to demand that Canada designate Pakistan a terrorist state for its role in supporting such violence. We believe that eradicating terrorism is essential to preserving humanity, ensuring peace, and protecting the rights of all communities to live free from fear.

Moving Forward: Hindu Canadians are integral to Canada’s multicultural fabric, contributing economically, culturally, and socially. By staying united, informed, and proactive, the community can navigate these challenging times with strength and dignity. HCF encourages all members to report incidents, engage with authorities, and foster alliances to uphold Canada’s values of inclusion and justice.

For further assistance, contact the Hindu Canadian Foundation at [namaste@hinducanadian.org] or visit our website for resources and updates. Together, we can stand against hate, combat terrorism, and build a safer, more harmonious Canada for all.