A Canadian police officer has been suspended after attending a Khalistani protest outside a Hindu temple, sparking controversy and raising concerns over potential conflicts of interest. The incident occurred in the Greater Toronto Area, where the officer was seen participating in the protest in support of the Khalistani movement, which advocates for the creation of an independent Sikh state in India.

The protest took place outside a Hindu temple, a site that some community members felt was inappropriate for such a demonstration, given the ongoing tensions between the Sikh community and Hindu nationalists. The Khalistani movement has been a subject of political and social tension, with some viewing it as a call for self-determination, while others consider it a threat to India’s territorial integrity and peace.

In response to the officer’s involvement, the police force issued a statement confirming the suspension and launching an internal investigation. Authorities emphasized that police officers are expected to remain impartial and refrain from engaging in activities that could undermine their role as neutral public servants. The force also stressed that the officer’s actions did not reflect the views of the police department or its commitment to serving the entire community without bias.

This incident highlights the delicate nature of policing in multicultural societies like Canada, where tensions between different ethnic and religious groups can sometimes spill over into public life. The suspension also raises questions about how law enforcement agencies handle the personal and political affiliations of officers, particularly when they intersect with sensitive community issues.

The investigation is ongoing, and the officer’s future with the force remains uncertain as authorities continue to assess the situation. The incident has sparked broader discussions about balancing free expression with the responsibilities of public service.