NEW DELHI: The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, California, one of the largest Hindu temples in the United States, was recently defaced with anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti. Phrases like โMODI=Hitlerโ and โHindu Stanโ were scrawled on its walls, sparking widespread condemnation from the Indian government, local Hindu communities, and advocacy groups. The incident, which occurred just days before a planned Khalistani referendum event in Los Angeles, has raised concerns about escalating tensions and Hinduphobia.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India strongly condemned the act, calling it โdespicableโ and urging U.S. authorities to take stringent action. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, โWe condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms. We call upon local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for these acts and ensure adequate security to places of worship.โ The Indian Consulate in San Francisco also expressed its outrage, emphasizing the need for justice and protection for religious institutions.
Swami Chakrapani Maharaj, president of the Hindu Mahasabha, criticized the incident, stating, โItโs unfortunate that such acts are happening in developed countries like the U.S. This is a wake-up call for all nations to come together to protect religious freedom and ensure the safety of Hindus worldwide.โ
The timing of the vandalism, coinciding with a planned Khalistani referendum event, has led to suspicions of involvement by Khalistani extremists. Advocacy groups like the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) have linked the incident to a broader pattern of anti-Hindu hate crimes. CoHNA remarked, โThis attack is yet another reminder of the growing anti-Hindu sentiment in the West. Itโs time for authorities to take these incidents seriously.โ
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The BAPS organization reaffirmed its commitment to peace and unity. โIn the face of another Mandir desecration, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail,โ read a statement from BAPS Public Affairs.
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) called for a thorough investigation, urging FBI Director Kash Patel and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard to prioritize combating Hinduphobia. โWith leaders like Patel and Gabbard, this is the best opportunity to address systemic issues and ensure justice,โ said an HAF spokesperson.
This incident has reignited calls for stronger measures to protect religious institutions and combat hate crimes. Monitoring progress against Hinduphobia must now be hardcoded into Indo-US diplomatic ties. As investigations continue, the Hindu community remains united in its resolve to stand against hate and uphold the values of tolerance and respect.
The vandalism serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by minority communities and the urgent need for collective action to address hate crimes and ensure religious freedom.
