India condemns vandalism at Hindu temple in California

New Delhi Mar 9: MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal issued a strong condemnation of the incident of vandalism at a Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California.

"We have seen reports regarding the vandalism at a Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California. We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms.

We call upon local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible and to ensure adequate security for places of worship," official spokesperson Jaiswal stated.

The BAPS Hindu Temple in the United States was once again targeted with discriminatory messages on Saturday, this time in Chino Hills, California. The official U.S. page of BAPS confirmed the incident on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing their commitment to resisting hate.

"In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail," the BAPS Public Affairs account posted.

The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) also drew attention to past instances of vandalism and highlighted broader concerns about anti-Hindu sentiment. "Another Hindu temple vandalized—this time the iconic BAPS temple in Chino Hills, CA. It’s just another day in a world where the media and academics will insist there is no anti-Hindu hate and that #Hinduphobia is just a construct of our imagination. Not surprising this happens as the day for a so-called 'Khalistan referendum' in LA draws close," CoHNA stated.

This incident follows a pattern of similar attacks on Hindu places of worship. Last year, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, California, was vandalized on September 25, just days after another attack on the BAPS Mandir in New York. The latest act of vandalism included offensive graffiti sparking distress among the local Hindu community. However, residents have reaffirmed their determination to stand united against hatred and intolerance.