India Condemns Egg Attack on Toronto Rath Yatra
New Delhi: India has issued a strong condemnation following an incident where eggs were thrown at participants in a Rath Yatra procession in Toronto, Canada. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the act as “regrettable” and urged Canadian authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
The disruption occurred during the annual Hindu festival, organized by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) on July 11. Devotees were singing and chanting devotional songs when eggs were allegedly hurled from a nearby building, according to a video shared by Instagram user Sangna Bajaj.
“We have seen reports regarding disruption created by mischievous elements during the Rath Yatra procession in Toronto,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in a statement. “Such despicable acts are regrettable and are against the spirit of the festival, which seeks to promote unity, inclusivity, and social harmony.”
India has formally raised the issue with Canadian authorities, pressing for action to ensure the perpetrators face consequences. “We hope the Canadian Government will take necessary action to protect the religious rights of people,” Jaiswal added.
ALSO READ : Pro-Khalistani Terrorist Threatens Kapil Sharma After Attack On His Canadian Cafe: Reports
The incident has sparked outrage, particularly in Odisha, where the Rath Yatra holds deep cultural and emotional significance. Former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik expressed his dismay, stating on X, “Deeply disturbed to know about the reports of eggs being hurled at devotees during #RathaJatra celebrations in Toronto, Canada. Such incidents not only grievously hurt the sentiments of Lord Jagannatha’s devotees worldwide, but also cause deep anguish to the people of Odisha.”
The attack follows a series of reported incidents targeting Hindu religious events in Canada, raising concerns about the safety of the Indian diaspora and their right to practice their faith.