 |
|
The recent act of vandalism at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, California, has sparked outrage and condemnation from both India and the local community. The incident, which occurred on September 24th, saw unknown individuals desecrate the temple with expletive-laden graffiti that read 'Hindus go back!' This act of vandalism, coming just ten days after a similar incident at a New York temple, has highlighted the growing concern over anti-Hindu sentiment and hate crimes targeting Hindu places of worship.
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco has issued a strong condemnation of the vandalism, assuring that they have taken up the matter with local authorities to ensure swift action against the perpetrators. The Consulate's statement emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the need for accountability. This incident has also drawn condemnation from various quarters, including the BAPS organization itself. BAPS, a non-profit Hindu organization, expressed deep sadness and resoluteness in denouncing such acts of hate, emphasizing their continued prayers for all, even those who harbor such hateful sentiments.
The incident has also garnered attention from local officials, with Ami Bera, the representative for Sacramento County in the US House, condemning the vandalism and urging the community to stand united against intolerance. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and respect of everyone in the community, regardless of their faith. Furthermore, the Hindu American Foundation, in a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee, highlighted the alarming rise in anti-Hindu hate crimes, citing data from both the FBI and the state of California. They condemned the incident and called for justice, emphasizing the unacceptability of targeting Hindu temples to spread hatred against Indian and Hindu American communities.
This act of vandalism serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities in the United States. It underscores the importance of promoting interfaith dialogue, fostering tolerance, and combatting hate speech. The authorities' swift investigation and the community's united condemnation are crucial steps in ensuring that such incidents are not repeated and that everyone feels safe and respected in their places of worship.
Source: 'Action will be taken': India's Consulate strongly condemns BAPS temple vandalism