A cinema in Oakville, Canada, faced two attacks, including an arson attempt and a shooting, with both incidents taking place during the screening of Indian films. The events have raised concerns and triggered investigations, with suspicions directed toward Khalistani extremists. The attacks targeted Film.Ca Cinemas, and a video of the incidents is available.
The attacks happened during the screening of Indian films. As a safety precaution, the screenings of Indian films have been cancelled.
The first attack took place on September 25th. At approximately 5:20 AM, two suspects attempted to set fire to the theater doors by pouring gasoline on them. The fire was ignited from outside, causing minor damage, but not spreading inside. According to police, the suspects were wearing black clothing and masks. CCTV footage showed a gray and a white SUV, which were used by the attackers.
The second attack occurred on October 2nd. Around 1:50 AM, an unidentified suspect fired shots at the theater entrance. Police described the attacker as a heavy-set person wearing black clothing and a mask.
Both incidents are believed to have been targeted attacks.
Jeff Knoll, CEO of the theater, mentioned the theater was targeted simply because they were showing South Asian films. They aim to ensure their community feels safe and plan to continue providing film experiences for audiences.
As a result, the theater has, as a precaution, paused the screening of two Indian films. The theater made it clear that they would not back down, but the security of their staff and viewers remains their utmost concern.
Halton Police are conducting an investigation.
Amidst these incidents, the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has called for a ban on all “Made in India” films and products in Canada.
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, General Counsel of SFJ, stated that “Made in India” has gone beyond being a cultural signifier, evolving into a political weapon of the Modi government, designed to propagate Hindutva ideology. Pannun believes that every Indian film and “Made in India” product contains an element of violent ideology, leading India toward a Hindutva-based dictatorship.
SFJ has asked Prime Minister Trudeau, Canadian policymakers, business leaders, and cultural institutions to take firm action and ban “Made in India” films and products. They underscored that the issue is not about trade or cinema; it’s about safeguarding Canada’s democratic spirit from the influence of Modi’s Hindutva-based regime.