In a recent incident that has sparked outrage, the Swaminarayan Temple in Newark, California, was vandalized with pro-Khalistan slogans and anti-India graffiti. The shocking act of vandalism came to light when images were shared on social media by the Hindu-American foundation, revealing spray-painted walls of the Swaminarayan Mandir Vasana Sanstha.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing that “extremists, separatists, and such forces should not be given space.” He further disclosed that the Indian Consulate in San Francisco has lodged a complaint with US authorities, and an investigation is currently underway.
“I have seen the news. As you know, we are concerned about this. Extremists and separatist forces outside India should not get space. Our consulate has lodged a complaint with the (US) government and the police there over whatever happened, and I believe the matter is being inquired,” stated Mr. Jaishankar in response to the incident.
The Indian embassy in San Francisco joined in the condemnation, expressing their strong disapproval and highlighting that the incident had deeply hurt the sentiments of the Indian community. They urged for a swift investigation and prompt action against the vandals by US authorities.
According to the temple administration, the vandalism occurred on Thursday night, and it was discovered by a devotee living in proximity to the shrine. The local administration was immediately informed, and Newark Police are currently investigating the matter as a targeted act.
“One of the devotees, who lives close to the shrine, discovered anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti in black ink on an exterior wall of the building, and the local administration was immediately informed,” said Bhargav Raval, the spokesperson for the temple administration.
Jonathan Arguello, a captain in the Newark Police Department, expressed the department’s deep sadness over such acts, stating, “Based on the graffiti, we believe it was a targeted act, and it’s going to be investigated with full thoroughness.”
This incident is not isolated, as similar instances of Hindu temples being targeted have occurred in the past, both in the United States and neighboring Canada. India has previously expressed concern over escalating activities by Khalistan supporters and has taken measures to address organizations and individuals attempting to fuel separatist sentiments in different countries.
In August, a temple in Surrey, Canada, was vandalized allegedly by Khalistani supporters. The incident included the placement of pro-Khalistan posters on the walls and gate of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. Canada accused India of having a role in the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, but evidence supporting the allegations has not been provided.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to such accusations, stating, “If someone gives us any information, we will definitely look into it.” India has consistently refuted the claims, labeling them as false and baseless, and has expressed a willingness to investigate if provided with concrete evidence by the concerned countries.
As investigations unfold, the international community will be closely watching for developments in this concerning trend of temple vandalism and its potential geopolitical implications.
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