"Hindus Go Back": BAPS Mandir In California Defaced, Community Calls For Peace And Unity

In just eight days, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in California was desecrated with anti-Hindu messages, including the slogan "Hindus go back."

BAPS Public Affairs responded with a statement: "We stand united against hate with prayers for peace," shared in a post on X. The Sacramento Police have launched an investigation, classifying the vandalism at the Mather BAPS Hindu Temple as a "hate crime." Officers reported that the vandals also cut water lines on the property, with detectives and CSI teams currently on-site.

In response to the incident, Hindu community leaders gathered at the Sacramento temple for a prayer ceremony, calling for "peace and unity."

"Community leaders gathered for a heartfelt prayer ceremony at the @BAPS Mandir in Sacramento, CA, following the desecration of the mandir. Inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj, we remain dedicated to promoting harmony and standing against intolerance. Together we will defeat hate," the BAPS Pubic Affairs said.

The Consulate General of India in New York condemned the vandalism, calling it an "unacceptable" and "heinous act."

"No Place for Religious Bigotry and Hatred"

Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera, representing Sacramento County, strongly condemned the vandalism, stating, "There is no place for religious bigotry and hatred in Sacramento." He urged the community to stand against intolerance, emphasizing the need for safety and respect for all.

Congressman Ro Khanna also denounced the incident, calling it "appalling and morally wrong." He urged the Department of Justice to investigate and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

On September 16, the road and signage outside the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, were defaced with expletives. It has to be noted that Melville, which located in Suffolk County, is about 28 km from the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, where Prime Minister Modi had addressed a community event the previous Sunday.