A prominent Hindu temple in California, United States, was vandalized with anti-India graffiti, leading to an investigation by the police to determine whether it was a hate crime. The incident occurred at the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu Temple in Newark, California. The City of Newark Police Department received a report of graffiti at the temple on Friday morning. Officers met with temple leaders who expressed that the vandalism was intended to intimidate them. Authorities believe the content of the graffiti suggests a targeted act, prompting the investigation into a possible hate crime.
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco strongly condemned the defacing of the temple and expressed their concern for the sentiments of the Indian community. They have called for a swift investigation and prompt action against the vandals by US authorities. Social media images show that the word ‘Khalistan’ was spray-painted along with other objectionable graffiti on a signpost outside the temple. The Newark Police emphasized that any acts or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes motivated by hate or bias are treated as serious offenses and given high priority.
Notably, this is not the first incident where a temple has been defaced in recent times by Khalistani separatists. The Indian government has been urging countries like Canada, the UK, and the US to not provide a platform for extremist Khalistani ideology. Following the death of the Canada-based Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar, there has been a surge in anti-India activities by Khalistan supporters. In July, the Indian consulate in San Francisco was attacked by Khalistan supporters attempting to set fire to the diplomatic facility. The vandalization of the temple in Newark occurred amidst allegations of an Indian official’s involvement in a plot to assassinate a separatist Sikh leader in the US. Indian authorities have expressed concern and assured appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of an investigative panel reviewing the allegations.
The incident has sparked outrage and concern within the Indian community and globally as acts of religious vandalism and hate crimes continue to be a matter of great distress. The authorities are working diligently to identify and apprehend the responsible individuals. The incident serves as a reminder of the need to promote tolerance, understanding, and unity, while condemning acts of hate and violence.
In Conclusion, the vandalization of the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu Temple in California with anti-India graffiti is being investigated as a possible hate crime. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco has strongly condemned the incident and called for a prompt investigation. Such acts of religious vandalism and hate crimes are deeply concerning and underline the importance of fostering respect and tolerance in society.
