Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): A dispute over the management and accounting of Gurdwara donation funds turned into a physical confrontation at a Gurdwara in Canada, with members of two rival groups allegedly clashing during a committee meeting. Videos of the incident have since gone viral on social media, prompting widespread discussion within the community.
According to reports, the meeting had been convened to review the accounts related to the Gurdwara’s golak (donation box). However, disagreements between rival factions quickly escalated into a heated exchange, which later resulted in pushing, shoving and physical confrontation inside the premises.
President Accused of Assault and Threatening Member
A CCTV video circulating online allegedly shows the Gurdwara committee president slapping a member during the argument before picking up a barchha (traditional spear). Members associated with the Mehar Singh group have claimed the president attempted to intimidate and attack one of their supporters, leading to a scuffle between both sides.
The disturbance was eventually brought under control by people present at the meeting, but not before the confrontation created panic among those inside the Gurdwara.
CCTV Video Shared on Social Media
Footage said to be from the Gurdwara’s CCTV cameras surfaced online and was shared through an Instagram page titled “Jatt We Like Canada” on August 2. The video has since attracted significant attention and sparked debate on social media.
The same page also uploaded an audio recording purportedly featuring the committee president, containing several allegations. However, the authenticity of the audio has not been independently verified, and no official agency has confirmed its contents.
Investigation Yet to Be Confirmed
Neither the Gurdwara management nor local Canadian authorities have issued an official statement regarding the incident so far. It is also unclear whether a formal police complaint has been filed.
The incident has drawn criticism from members of the Sikh community, with several voices urging transparency in Gurdwara administration and calling for internal disputes to be settled peacefully rather than through violence.
