Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s deep concerns regarding the recent attacks on temples and the activities of separatist elements in Australia during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The two leaders discussed these pressing issues both in the past and during their meeting in Sydney, emphasising the importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
Speaking in Hindi during a joint media interaction with Albanese, PM Modi emphasised, “We will not tolerate any actions or thoughts that undermine the friendly and warm relations between India and Australia.” He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Albanese for the actions already taken and received reassurances of strict measures against such elements in the future.
In response to the concerns raised, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong affirmed her government’s commitment to ensuring a society free from violence and hatred. She stated, “As a multicultural democracy, we safeguard our social cohesion, and there is certainly no space for violence. This is the approach our government will adopt.”
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra also addressed the issue, describing the attacks on temples as disruptive to the bilateral relationship between India and Australia. He noted that progress has been made in addressing the matter, and relevant departments from both countries will maintain close communication to exchange timely information and take appropriate action.
PM Modi Raises Serious Concerns Over Temple Attacks in Australia, Receives Firm Commitment
The positive developments were evident when PM Modi expressed his gratitude to PM Albanese for the actions taken by the Australian government. This includes not only recognizing the nature of such activities but also taking measures against the perpetrators responsible for these attacks. Both India and Australia are determined to protect their robust and multifaceted ties and will undertake any necessary actions to ensure the disruption caused by such elements is minimized.
The issue of temple attacks was initially raised during PM Albanese’s visit to India in March, following incidents of vandalism carried out by pro-Khalistan elements in Australia. These acts targeted several temples and were accompanied by protests in cities like Sydney and Brisbane. The individuals associated with the banned organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) were found to be involved in these activities, as they sought to promote a so-called referendum on Khalistan.
Australian officials strongly condemned the violence and made it clear that the referendum is not recognized by either country. They emphasized their commitment to upholding domestic laws and stated that any extreme actions or attacks on religious buildings would not be tolerated.
As both India and Australia remain steadfast in their determination to combat such challenges, the commitment to address the issue of temple attacks demonstrates the significance they place on maintaining strong bilateral relations. Through continued cooperation and timely actions, they aim to safeguard the values of peace, harmony, and mutual respect within their respective societies.
The matter of temple attacks in Australia has garnered significant attention, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a strong stance against these incidents during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The focus on this issue underscores the importance of preserving the close ties between India and Australia and ensuring the safety and security of religious institutions.
During their joint media interaction, PM Modi expressed his firm resolve, stating, “We will not accept any elements that harm the friendly and warm ties between India and Australia by their actions or thoughts.” His emphasis on the need to address the attacks on temples and the activities of separatist elements underscores the gravity of the situation and the shared commitment to combatting such challenges.
The Australian government, represented by Foreign Minister Penny Wong, has responded with assurances that there will be no tolerance for violence and hatred. Wong emphasized the importance of social cohesion and stated unequivocally, “There is certainly no space for violence, and that’s the approach the government will be taking.” This clear statement of intent to maintain a peaceful and inclusive society reinforces the shared values and commitment to a harmonious coexistence.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted the disruptive nature of temple attacks on the bilateral relationship between India and Australia. He acknowledged the progress made in addressing the issue and stressed the need for ongoing coordination between relevant departments in both countries. This coordinated approach aims to exchange timely information and take swift action whenever necessary to prevent such attacks and safeguard the interests of both nations.
Protecting Religious Freedom: PM Modi’s Stand Against Temple Attacks in Australia and Assurances for Action
The positive developments in combating temple attacks were evident when PM Modi expressed his gratitude to PM Albanese for the actions taken by the Australian government. The acknowledgment of the steps taken to understand the nature of these activities and hold the perpetrators accountable reflects the determination of both countries to protect their strong and multifaceted ties. This commitment ensures that any disruption caused by such elements will be addressed promptly and effectively.
The initial discussion on temple attacks took place during PM Albanese’s visit to India in March. The incidents of vandalism perpetrated by pro-Khalistan elements in Australia, targeting several temples, were met with widespread condemnation. These acts were accompanied by protests in major cities, underscoring the need for a decisive response from the Australian authorities. The Australian government clarified that the so-called referendum on Khalistan is not recognized by either country, firmly rejecting any extreme actions or attacks on religious buildings temple attacks.
The commitment shown by both India and Australia to address the issue of temple attacks demonstrates their shared values of religious tolerance, respect, and the pursuit of peace. By working together, they aim to ensure the safety and security of all religious institutions and foster an environment of mutual understanding and harmony. The determination to overcome these challenges further strengthens the bond between the two nations and lays the foundation for continued cooperation on various fronts.
As India and Australia move forward, their joint efforts to combat temple attacks serve as a testament to their commitment to promoting peace, preserving cultural heritage, and upholding the principles of inclusivity and religious freedom. Through ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and the implementation of stringent measures, both countries strive to create a safer and more secure environment for all communities, thereby fostering a deepening partnership based on shared values and mutual respect.