Indian Government Condemns Vandalism of Hindu Temple in California, Calls for Strict Action
The Indian government has strongly condemned the recent vandalism of a Hindu temple in California, expressing deep concern over the incident. The temple, located in Newark, was defaced with anti-India graffiti, prompting a swift response from Indian authorities. The Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement criticizing the act and urging the U.S. to take stringent measures against those responsible.
The vandalism occurred at the Swaminarayan Mandir, a place of worship that has been a cornerstone for the local Hindu community. The graffiti included messages supporting the Khalistan movement, a separatist campaign advocating for a sovereign state for Sikhs in India. This incident has heightened tensions within the community, as it is not the first time such an event has occurred in the U.S.
Indian officials have reached out to U.S. authorities, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those involved. The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has also been actively involved, working to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals and their places of worship in the region.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the safety of religious institutions and the rise of hate crimes targeting specific communities. Community leaders and members have called for increased vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to prevent future occurrences. The temple's leadership has expressed gratitude for the support received from both the local and international community, vowing to continue their religious and cultural activities undeterred.
