iNDICA NEWS BUREAU
Canada has moved a step closer to toughening its hate crime laws as the House of Commons passed a new bill after a closely divided vote.
Bill C-9, also known as the Combating Hate Act, passed third reading on Wednesday night with the support of the Bloc Québécois, while both the Conservatives and NDP opposed it.
The bill passed by a vote of 186 to 137 and now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
The proposed law introduces new offenses in the criminal code aimed at curbing hate-related acts. A key provision would make it a crime to intentionally promote hatred against identifiable groups in public through the use of certain hateful or terrorist symbols.
The Liberal government has argued the bill is necessary to strengthen existing protections and respond to increasing concerns about hate incidents across the country.
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) welcomed the passage of the bill in the House of Commons, calling it an important first step. “We look forward to considering and voting on this important legislation in the Canadian Senate,” it said.
The group also called on lawmakers to pay greater attention during Senate deliberations to what it described as growing Hinduphobia in Canada.
“As part of the Senate deliberations, CoHNA is urging greater attention to the growing Hinduphobia in Canada, particularly the attacks on dozens of Hindu temples in recent years. And to the targeted hatred and violence of CBKEs (Canada-based Khalistani extremists) against Canadian Hindus. These groups have often resorted to violent rhetoric and targeted threats before the actual violence occurred,” CoHNA added.
“For years, our community has struggled with the loud, graphic and often violent demonstrations at Hindu temples that directly impact the experience of worshipers seeking spiritual solace. These serious concerns are continually overlooked and inaction by law enforcement only increases the community’s vulnerability. Every community in Canada deserves equal protection from hate, and Hindus are no exception,” it said.
The organization also acknowledged the broader debate surrounding the bill and the need to balance protections with civil liberties.