TORONTO (Diya TV) — India has condemned an incident in Toronto where eggs were allegedly thrown at a Rath Yatra procession, calling the act “regrettable” and urging Canada to take strict action against those responsible.
The incident occurred on July 11 during the 53rd annual Rath Yatra organized by ISKCON Toronto. The event, celebrated by Hindus worldwide, honors Lord Jagannatha, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi through a joyful public parade of singing, chanting, and devotion. This year’s festivities began in downtown Toronto and ended on Centre Island.
Videos shared on social media showed eggs scattered across the road as devotees moved peacefully through the city. The footage, uploaded by Instagram user Sangna Bajaj, showed participants singing devotional songs during the attack. Bajaj, who walked with the group, detailed the shocking moment when unidentified individuals reportedly threw eggs from a nearby building.
Despite the disruption, the devotees continued the procession without interruption. Their calm and devotion received praise across social media.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs called the attack “despicable” and demanded action. Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have seen reports regarding disruption created by mischievous elements during the Rath Yatra procession in Toronto. Such despicable acts are regrettable and are against the spirit of the festival, which seeks to promote unity, inclusivity, and social harmony.”
India has raised the matter with Canadian authorities. “We have strongly taken up the matter with Canadian authorities to hold the perpetrators of the act accountable. We hope the Canadian Government will take necessary action to protect the religious rights of people,” Jaiswal added.
The incident has sparked concern in India, particularly in Odisha, where the Rath Yatra holds deep cultural significance. Former Odisha Chief Minister and BJD leader Naveen Patnaik condemned the act. He posted on social media, urging the Indian government to lodge a formal protest and seek a strong response from Canada.
Patnaik also appealed to the central and state governments to take the matter seriously and ensure such acts do not go unpunished.
ISKCON Toronto confirmed that the incident took place during their annual Rath Yatra. According to their website, the festival brings the deities out of the temple and into the streets, symbolizing inclusiveness and divine blessings for all. The procession took place between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., featuring kirtans, devotional chants, and singing in downtown Toronto.
The event later moved to Centre Island, where spiritual celebrations continued, including cultural performances and spiritual discourse. ISKCON said the event aims to uplift the soul and promote universal values of love, peace, and unity.
This latest incident adds to ongoing tensions between India and Canada. New Delhi has expressed concerns in recent months over the safety of Indian communities and religious events in Canada. Indian officials have repeatedly urged Canadian authorities to take stronger steps to protect Indian interests.
The disruption of a peaceful religious procession, officials say, raises questions about the protection of religious freedoms in Canada.
The incident has drawn condemnation from Hindu organizations worldwide. Many have called for increased protection for future events and stressed the importance of mutual respect in multicultural societies.
Social media users also reacted with outrage. Many urged Canadian authorities to investigate the matter and ensure accountability. Some expressed disappointment that such an incident occurred in a country known for its multiculturalism and tolerance.
As investigations continue, the Indian community in Canada and around the world is calling for swift justice and a reaffirmation of religious freedoms.
