Hindu temple targeted again in America, second incident in 10 days

BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento (California), USA was targeted by some anti-Hindu elements on the night of 25 September. Miscreants vandalized the temple and also wrote anti-Hindu messages. A similar incident of vandalism was reported from BAPS Mandir in New York 10 days ago. The messages written on the temple said, "Hindus go back", after which concern arose in the local Hindu community.

Given the threat, the community has vowed to unite against hate. Giving information about the incident, BAPS Public Affairs wrote on Twitter, “Less than 10 days after the desecration of the BAPS temple in New York, last night our temple in Sacramento, California was desecrated with anti-Hindu hate and the words “Hindus go back!” We pray for peace and stand united against hate.”

According to the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office, a sheriff's deputy visited the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Mather. After the visit, the deputy said vandals also cut the property's water lines.

Reacting to the incident, Sacramento County Assemblyman Ami Bera wrote on Twitter, “There is no place for religious bigotry and hate in Sacramento County. I strongly condemn this act of vandalism in our community. We must all stand up against intolerance and ensure that everyone in our community, regardless of religion, feels safe and respected.”

After this incident, there is anger and fear among the Indian community in America. Indian-origin American MP RO Khanna condemned this incident and said that the US government should take immediate action. He said that the BAPS Hindu temple in Sacramento California was vandalized overnight by raising anti-Hindu slogans, the Justice Department should take immediate action.

He also wrote to his ex that people responsible for such hatred should be identified and prosecuted.