'We Call for Stringent Action': MEA Condemns Vandalism of Hindu Temple in US With Anti-India Graffiti

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs on Sunday condemned the recent vandalism of a Hindu temple in Southern California.  The government has called upon local authorities to take strict actions against those guilty.

In a post on X, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have seen reports regarding the vandalism at a Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California. We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms. We call upon the local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for these acts, and also ensure adequate security to places of worship.”

The incident came to light after the local Hindu community, with organisations like BAPS and the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) condemning the act of desecration, shared a post of the incident.

The BAPS Hindu Temple in California's Chino Hills was vandalised with hateful messages just days before the scheduled "Khalistani referendum" in Los Angeles, ANI reported.

The vandalism, which involved anti-Hindu graffiti, was reported on social media by the official page of BAPS for the United States. The BAPS Public Affairs team shared details of the incident on X (formerly Twitter), emphasising the community's resolve to confront hate and maintain peace. "In a post on X, BAPS Public Affairs wrote, "In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stand steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail," the tweet read.

Also read | 'Hindus Go Back' graffiti on BAPS temple in California, 2nd incident in 10 days

The BAPS statement came as the community rallied behind their commitment to unity, despite the divisive and harmful messages.

As per reports, the vandalism is believed to be linked to the approaching "Khalistan referendum" in Los Angeles, included derogatory phrases such as "Hindus go back," alarming local Hindu residents.

CoHNA, a grassroots-level advocacy organisation dedicated to improving the understanding of Hinduism in North America, also shared their condemnation on social media.

"Another Hindu Temple vandalized - this time the iconic BAPS temple in Chino Hills, CA. It's just another day in a world where media and academics will insist there is no anti-Hindu hate and that #Hinduphobia is just a construct of our imagination. Not surprising this happens as the day for a so called "Khalistan referendum" in LA draws close," the post read.

Also read | Idols In Three Hindu Temples Vandalised In Bangladesh

This recent act of vandalism has added to growing concerns about the safety and security of Hindu places of worship in the United States. The community’s response has been one of solidarity, reaffirming their commitment to standing united against hate and violence.

Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, but as of now, no suspects have been identified. Both BAPS and CoHNA have called for swift action and justice, urging authorities to thoroughly investigate the motives behind this attack and to take steps to prevent future hate-driven crimes against the Hindu community.

The incident has raised important questions about the rise of anti-Hindu sentiment and the impact of political movements, such as the Khalistan referendum, on religious harmony. Despite these challenges, the Hindu community in Southern California has vowed to remain strong in their faith, standing together in the face of adversity to uphold peace and unity.

(With inputs from ANI)