India slams Rath Yatra disruption in Toronto, calls incident 'despicable'; urges Canada to act against perpetrators

NEW DELHI: India has strongly condemned the disruption caused during the Rath Yatra procession in Toronto, calling it a "despicable act" that goes against the spirit of unity and social harmony. In an official statement, ministry of external affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the matter has been taken up with Canadian authorities.

“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,” Jaiswal said.

The MEA said it expects Canada to take appropriate action. “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,” the statement added.

The incident occurred during the annual Hindu festival in Toronto, where anti-social elements reportedly attempted to disrupt the religious procession.

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,… pic.twitter.com/UeawCx6lYt

— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) July 14, 2025

India has repeatedly called on Canada to ensure the safety and rights of its diaspora community, amid concerns over rising incidents targeting Indian-origin religious gatherings.