
MEA Urges Stringent Action Against Vandals of California’s BAPS Hindu Temple
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has strongly condemned the vandalism of the BAPS Hindu temple in California, urging the local authorities to take stringent action against those responsible. The incident, which involved the defacement of temple walls with anti-India graffiti, has sparked outrage among the Indian diaspora and religious communities in the United States.
The vandalism occurred at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Newark, California, a prominent Hindu temple that serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for the community. The graffiti included offensive messages against India, causing distress and concern among temple-goers and local residents.
In response, the MEA issued a statement expressing deep concern over the incident and calling for a thorough investigation. The ministry emphasized the importance of protecting places of worship and ensuring the safety and security of religious communities abroad.
The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has also engaged with local law enforcement to expedite the investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. The temple authorities have cooperated fully with the police, providing them with CCTV footage and other evidence to aid in identifying the vandals.
This incident has reignited discussions about the safety of religious sites and the need for increased vigilance against hate crimes. Community leaders and organizations have rallied together, calling for unity and solidarity in the face of such acts of intolerance.
The BAPS Hindu temple vandalism is not an isolated event; similar incidents have been reported in other parts of the U.S. and Canada, highlighting the need for a coordinated response to protect religious freedoms and combat hate crimes.