Sgt. Harinder Sohi, a Peel Regional Police officer, has been suspended after being caught on video participating in a controversial protest outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir temple in Brampton on Sunday.
Sgt. Harinder Sohi’s alleged action of joining pro-Khalistan violent protest were captured in a widely circulated video that has prompted an internal investigation by Peel Police.
Media Relations Officer Richard Chin confirmed the suspension, noting,
“The officer has been suspended in accordance with the Community Safety and Policing Act. We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the video and will refrain from further comment until the investigation is complete.”
The demonstration occurred as Indian consular officials were visiting the Hindu temple. Tensions escalated, with protesters seen displaying Khalistani flags.
The protest eventually turned violent, with reports of fistfights and individuals wielding flagpoles attacking Hindu worshippers.
Allegations have also surfaced suggesting this is not the first protest attended by Sgt. Harinder Sohi.
Donald Best, a former Canadian senior police officer, claims that suspended police sergeant Sohi also participated in a pro-Khalistan protest in Toronto on 18 October 2024. According to Best, Sohi was seen holding a sign calling for the shutdown of the High Commission of India in Ottawa.
Political leaders in both Canada and India have denounced the violence. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the “unacceptable” acts, underscoring Canadians’ rights to practise faith freely and safely.
In response, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as a “deliberate attack,” urging the Canadian government to uphold the rule of law.
Following the altercations, Peel police increased their presence around the Hindu Sabha Mandir to maintain order. Chief Nishan Duraiappah addressed the incident, emphasising that while peaceful protests are permitted, violence and criminal activities will not be tolerated. “Those who participate in violence will be pursued, arrested, and charged,” Duraiappah stated.
Peel Police confirmed that four individuals were arrested, including Dilpreet Singh Bouns, a 43-year-old man from Mississauga, was charged with causing a disturbance and assault peace officer; Vikas, a 23-year-old man from Brampton, was charged with assault with a weapon; and Amritpal Singh, a 31-year-old man from Mississauga, was charged with mischief over $5,000. All three men will appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton at a later date. A fourth individual was arrested on an outstanding unrelated warrant and subsequently released.
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