A cinema in Oakville, Canada, experienced two attacks, the first involving arson and the second a shooting. The incidents targeted the theater during the screening of Indian films. Authorities suspect that Khalistani extremists are behind these attacks. A video of the incidents at Film.Ca Cinemas has been released.
The attacks occurred while Indian films were being screened. As a result, the screenings of Indian films have been cancelled due to security concerns.
The first attack happened on September 25th. At approximately 5:20 AM, two suspects attempted to set fire to the theater doors by pouring gasoline. They ignited the fire from outside, causing minor damage, but it did not spread inside. Police reported that both suspects were wearing black clothing and masks. CCTV footage showed a gray and a white SUV used by the attackers to arrive and leave the scene.
The second attack took place on October 2nd. Around 1:50 AM, an unidentified suspect fired shots at the theater’s entrance. Police described the attacker as a heavily built person wearing black clothing and a mask.
Both incidents are believed to be targeted attacks.
Jeff Knoll, CEO of the theater, stated that the theater was targeted because they were showing South Asian films. The theater is committed to providing a safe environment and will continue to offer film experiences.
As a precautionary measure, the theater has suspended the screening of two Indian films. Their statement emphasized that they will not be intimidated, and the safety of staff and audiences is paramount.
The Halton Police are investigating the cases.
Following the arson and shooting incidents, the organization 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, asserted that “Made in India” is no longer merely a cultural marker, but has transformed into a political instrument of the Modi government, aimed at propagating Hindutva ideology. According to Pannun, every Indian film and every “Made in India” product reflects a violent ideology that is leading India towards a Hindutva-dominated dictatorship.
SFJ has urged Prime Minister Trudeau, Canadian policymakers, business leaders, and cultural institutions to take concrete action to ban “Made in India” films and products. The organization stressed that this issue is not about trade or cinema, but about safeguarding Canada’s democratic values from the detrimental influence of Modi’s Hindutva-based dictatorship.