A Hindu temple in California (USA)was defaced with anti-India graffiti, sparking outrage among the Indian community. The incident took place at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, just days before a pro-Khalistan referendum event in Los Angeles.
The attack is suspected to be the work of pro-Khalistan elements, who have been involved in similar acts of vandalism across the US, Canada, and Australia in recent months. These groups have increasingly targeted Hindu places of worship with inflammatory messages.
The official BAPS Public Affairs account on X (formerly Twitter) strongly condemned the desecration, stating:
“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.”
This isn’t an isolated incident. In September 2024, a BAPS temple in Sacramento was similarly vandalized. Other attacks have been reported in New York, Brampton (Canada), and Melbourne (Australia), where Hindu Temples were defaced with pro-Khalistan slogans.
The Indian government has condemned the attack and urged US authorities to take strict action against those responsible. Community leaders have also demanded increased security for temples and other religious sites.