What Steps is Canadian MP Jamil Jivani Taking to Safeguard Religious Freedom?
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Synopsis
In a pressing move for religious freedom, Canadian MP Jamil Jivani has introduced a motion to protect worship rights amid escalating violence against religious communities in Canada. Discover the details and implications of this crucial initiative.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent action required to protect religious communities.
- Significant rise in violence since 2021.
- Over 100 churches and several temples have faced attacks.
- Legal reforms are essential for safeguarding worship rights.
- Community response is critical for change.
Ottawa, July 29 (NationPress) Canadian MP Jamil Jivani has presented a motion to the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage, advocating for the safeguarding of the right to worship without the threat of violence or criminal intimidation.
This motion, introduced on Monday, urged the committee to recognize the alarming rise in violence and intimidation faced by religious communities in Canada since 2021, citing incidents that include assaults on Hindu temples, churches, mosques, and synagogues.
According to Jivani, there is an urgent need for enhanced security measures and legal protections to prevent criminals from targeting these communities and infringing on their right to worship.
The motion highlighted that over 100 churches have been either burnt or desecrated, with Hindu temples attacked by violent protestors, Jewish schools and synagogues subjected to bombings and shootings, and mosques attacked through assault and vandalism.
Furthermore, it requested that the committee investigate threats to the freedom of worship that have emerged since 2021, evaluate the implications of bubble zone laws around places of worship, and consider increasing the penalties for arson and other crimes directed at these sites.
Jivani called for an analysis of these threats and the need for two committee meetings on the subject, followed by a report to the House of Commons.
In recent incidents, the Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Surrey was vandalized with pro-Khalistan graffiti, marking the third act of vandalism at this location. Last November, a protest by Khalistani extremists near the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton turned violent, resulting in attacks on temple attendees.
Additionally, a Hindu temple in Windsor faced defacement with anti-India graffiti, prompting significant outcry and demands for action from officials in both Canada and India. Similar acts targeting temples in Mississauga and Brampton have drawn strong reactions from the Indian community in Canada.
Point of View
I recognize the urgent need for legislative measures that protect the rights of all religious groups in Canada. The increasing incidents of violence and intimidation faced by these communities cannot go unchecked. Jamil Jivani's motion is a necessary call to action that aligns with our national values of inclusivity and safety for all citizens.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Jamil Jivani's motion?
The motion aims to protect the freedom of worship in Canada by addressing rising violence and intimidation faced by religious communities.
What incidents prompted this motion?
The motion was prompted by multiple attacks on religious places including Hindu temples, churches, mosques, and synagogues since 2021.
What measures are being proposed?
Proposed measures include enhanced legal protections, security measures, and a study on the impact of existing laws related to places of worship.
