Egg Attack on Rath Yatra in Toronto Sparks Outrage and Protests

Incident Overview
During the Rath Yatra celebrations in Toronto, Canada, participants were reportedly targeted with eggs, leading to widespread protests and a response from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India. The MEA condemned the incident in a strong statement, while social media users criticized the act as disrespectful and labeled it 'Hinduphobic'.
Eyewitness Account
Sangna Bajaj, an Instagram user present at the event, shared her experience of the procession, which was filled with devotional songs. She captured a video showing broken eggs on the ground, explaining that they were thrown from a nearby building. Despite the shocking act, Bajaj emphasized that the procession continued, stating, 'We were shocked and hurt, but we pressed on. Hate cannot overcome faith.'
Rising Concerns
The incident has raised alarms about increasing racism and xenophobia, especially as Hinduism ranks as the third-largest religion in Canada according to the 2021 census. Over recent years, there have been multiple reports of attacks on Hindu temples and disruptions of religious events in the country.
Government Response
The MEA has taken the matter seriously, urging Canadian authorities to take action against those responsible for the egg-throwing incident.
Historical Context
This incident is not isolated. Khalistani radicals have previously vandalized the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Surrey, Canada, which was condemned by the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce as an act of 'Hinduphobia'. Additionally, there have been reports of vandalism at the Sri Krishna Brundavana Temple in the Greater Toronto Area, where two individuals were caught on camera damaging property.
Recent Attacks
In November 2024, a violent group associated with pro-Khalistani organizations attacked the Hindu Sabha Mandir temple in Brampton, Ontario. Videos shared on social media depicted chaotic scenes of violence at the temple. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, calling on the Canadian government to ensure justice.
The Egg Incident
In the video of the egg incident, a devotee can be heard expressing disbelief at the attack. Despite the disruption, the procession continued, with participants affirming their faith. One participant remarked, 'When Lord Jagannath is on the streets, no hate can shake us. This is not merely a festival; it represents an unshakeable belief.'
Official Statements
The MEA described the egg-throwing incident as 'regrettable' and called for stringent action against the perpetrators.