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Anti-Hindu graffiti appears at BAPS temple in US, second incident in 10 days | World News

BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in New York | Photo credit: X/@BAPS

3 minutes reading time Last updated: September 26, 2024 | 3:52 p.m. IS

In a hate crime in the US, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in California was defaced with anti-Hindu graffiti on Wednesday (September 25), the second such incident in the US in 10 days. The BAPS Public Relations Department confirmed that its Sacramento temple was defaced with the message “Hindus, go back.”

“We stand united against hate and pray for peace,” the organization said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Police have launched an investigation into the “hate crime vandalism” at the BAPS Hindu Temple in Mather. Authorities also reported that water lines on the property were cut during the incident.

In response, members of the Hindu community gathered at the temple for a prayer ceremony aimed at promoting “harmony.”

“Community leaders gathered for a heartfelt prayer ceremony at the BAPS Mandir in Sacramento, California, following the desecration of the mandir. Inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj, we remain committed to promoting harmony and fighting intolerance. Together we will defeat hatred,” the organization said, posting images on X.

Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera condemned the incident and urged people to reject intolerance.

“There is no place for religious bigotry and hatred in #SacramentoCounty. I strongly condemn this blatant act of vandalism in our community. We must all stand against intolerance and ensure that everyone in our community, regardless of their faith, feels safe and respected,” the Sacramento County representative said on X.

Similar vandalism at Hindu temples in the USA and Canada

Earlier, on September 17, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, was similarly vandalized with hate messages spray-painted on the temple's driveway and entrance sign.

According to Suffolk Police, a person spray-painted threatening and derogatory anti-Hindu remarks on the driveway and temple sign, resulting in property damage.

Detectives with the Suffolk County Police Hate Crimes Unit are investigating the incident as a hate crime.

The Indian Consulate General in New York also condemned the vandalism at the Melville Temple, calling the act “unacceptable” and noting that the matter had been raised with the US authorities.

In a post on X, the Consulate General wrote: “The vandalism at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York is unacceptable. The Consulate @IndiainNewYork is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with US law enforcement authorities for immediate action against the perpetrators of this heinous act.”

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) has called on the US Department of Justice to investigate the attack, especially as threats to Hindu institutions continue and the attack coincides with a major Indian community event planned for next weekend.

A few months ago, similar acts of vandalism were reported in Edmonton, Canada.

First published: September 26, 2024 | 3:52 p.m. IS

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