Official Statement Regarding Incident at ISKCON Toronto Rathayatra Parade
By ISKCON Communications North America
On Saturday, July 12th, during the annual Rathayatra parade organized by ISKCON Toronto, multiple eggs were thrown from a residential balcony onto the public street where thousands of parade-goers had gathered. One egg struck a female participant on the hand, causing localized swelling. Several other eggs landed on the ground, creating alarm among those nearby.
The incident was immediately reported by witnesses, and a police report was filed.
ISKCON strongly condemns this disrespectful and potentially dangerous act. There is no place for such behavior in a multicultural and tolerant society like Canada.
The Rathayatra Festival is a millennia-old tradition of peace, joy, and inclusivity, historically celebrated in India, and now observed in Toronto for 53 years without incident. This year’s festival drew more than 10,000 attendees from diverse backgrounds, including interfaith and multicultural participants such as members of the Chinese Canadian community who performed a traditional Dragon Dance throughout the parade.
We are grateful that no serious injuries occurred, and we commend the prompt response of law enforcement. We urge that the individuals responsible be held accountable under applicable laws.
ISKCON remains committed to the values of compassion, respect, and community harmony. We invite all people of goodwill to join us in upholding these principles.
ISKCON Communications North America
Kumari Kunti dasi, Co-Director
Madana Gopāla das, Co-Director
Source https://iskconnews.org/official-statement-regarding-incident-at-iskcon-toronto-rathayatra-parade/
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