Canada theatre cancels Indian film screenings after two violent attacks in a week

National Times Bureau :- A cinema in Oakville, Canada, has been forced to halt screenings of Indian films following two violent incidents within a week. Film.ca Cinemas faced an arson attack on September 25, followed by a shooting on October 2. Authorities suspect both attacks may be connected to the theatre’s showings of South Asian films.

Halton Regional Police reported that the first incident took place at around 5.20 am. on September 25. Surveillance footage captured two suspects pouring a flammable liquid at the cinema’s entrance and igniting it. The flames caused moderate damage to the doors but were contained before spreading further. Prior footage also showed a grey SUV making repeated trips to the site, while a white SUV arrived around 5.15 am. Two masked assailants dressed in black were then seen using red jerrycans to set the liquid ablaze.

Initially, Film.ca Cinemas had vowed to continue screening South Asian films despite the threats. CEO Jeff Knoll had posted a video stating, “We are going to play what we want to play, when we want to play it.” However, on October 3, the theatre announced it had removed two films, ‘Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1’ and ‘They Call Him OG’, from its schedule, citing safety concerns.

“Evidence seems to show that the exhibition of South Asian films has led to these incidents at our theatre and others across the Greater Toronto Area,” the theatre authorities stated. “While we do not wish to give in to threats, the situation has escalated. We must prioritise the safety of our guests and staff.”

As of Thursday, Film.ca’s website no longer lists any South Asian movies in its lineup.

Following the Oakville incidents, York Cinemas, another Greater Toronto Area theatre, also suspended all Indian film screenings. “Due to recent incidents, we will not be screening Indian movies until further notice. This decision has been made with the safety of our employees and guests in mind,” the theatre said. Refunds are being issued for advance ticket purchases. The police have urged the public to provide any relevant information to aid the probe.

By Rajeev Sharma

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