Hindu temple in US defaced with anti-India messages
What's the story
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, one of the largest Hindu temples in Southern California, was defaced with anti-India graffiti on Sunday.
The incident was reported by BAPS Public Affairs, which condemned the act as an expression of hatred toward the Hindu community.
BAPS Public Affairs confirmed the desecration of their temple in Chino Hills, California, calling it an attempt to sow division and hate.
Community response
BAPS Public Affairs condemns act of vandalism
BAPS Public Affairs said on X, "In the face of another Mandir desecration... the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root."
The organization stressed that peace and compassion would prevail through their shared humanity and faith.
Investigation status
Chino Hills Police Department has not commented on incident
The Chino Hills Police Department has not yet issued a statement regarding the temple vandalism.
The vandalism comes days ahead of a 'Khalistan referendum' event in Los Angeles, raising concerns about rising religious tensions.
The desecration has sparked widespread outrage among Hindu organizations, many of whom have called for immediate action from authorities.
Collective outrage
Coalition of Hindus of North America calls for action
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) also condemned the attack, highlighting the repeated targeting of Hindu temples in the US.
Taking to X, they expressed concern: "Another Hindu Temple vandalized - this time the iconic BAPS temple in Chino Hills, CA."
The organization urged authorities to investigate the incident and take necessary action against such hate crimes.
Recurring issue
Previous incidents of temple vandalism
This isn't the first attack on temples in the area.
Last September, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento was vandalized with inflammatory messages, nearly 10 days after a similar attack on the BAPS temple in Melville, New York.
Local Hindus were left alarmed and demanded increased security to safeguard their places of worship as well as take swift action.