Pro-Khalistan Graffiti on US Hindu Temple Sparks India’s Firm Reaction

by news
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December 23, 2023

The Indian consulate in San Francisco has strongly condemned the defacement of the Swaminarayan Mandir Vasana Sanstha with anti-India and pro-Khalistani graffiti in Newark, California. The incident, which occurred on Thursday night, involved hateful slogans against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with the name of Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale written on the temple walls.

Expressing concern over the incident, the consulate urged a quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities. In a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter), the consulate stated, “We strongly condemn the defacing of SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir at Newark, California with anti-India graffiti. This incident has hurt the sentiments of the Indian community. We have pressed for a quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities in this matter.”

The Hindu American Foundation shared images of the defaced temple on social media, denouncing the incident as a hate crime. They emphasized that the mention of Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale’s name was intended to create fear and trauma among temple-goers. The foundation called on the Newark police to investigate the incident as a hate crime.

The Newark police, acknowledging the incident as a targeted act, assured a thorough and sensitive investigation. A police official stated, “We’re deeply saddened when these types of acts occur, and we think they’re senseless and they have no room. We won’t tolerate them here in Newark. So today, I wanted to make sure that you understand how seriously we take these situations and know that we will investigate as thoroughly as possible with utmost care and sensitivity.”