
BAPS Hindu Temple Vandalized in California Ahead of Khalistan Referendum
In a shocking incident in Newark, California, the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Temple was vandalized just days before a planned Khalistan referendum in Los Angeles. The temple, a significant place of worship and community gathering, was found defaced with anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti, causing distress among the local community and Hindu groups worldwide.
The vandalism was discovered early Monday morning, with the temple's walls smeared with slogans advocating for Khalistan, a proposed sovereign state for Sikhs in the Punjab region. The incident has been reported to the Newark Police Department, which has launched an investigation into the matter. The temple authorities have condemned the act, calling it an attack on the peace and harmony of the community.
This event comes at a sensitive time, with tensions already high due to the upcoming Khalistan referendum scheduled to take place in Los Angeles. The referendum, organized by pro-Khalistan groups, aims to gauge support for the creation of Khalistan. The vandalism at the BAPS temple has raised concerns about the potential for increased communal tensions and has prompted calls for increased security around places of worship.
Community leaders and representatives from various Hindu organizations have expressed solidarity with the BAPS temple and urged authorities to take swift action against those responsible for the vandalism. They have also called for calm and unity within the community during this challenging time.
The incident has drawn international attention, with many condemning the act as an affront to religious freedom and communal harmony. It highlights the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities and the need for vigilance against hate crimes.