US lawmakers, Indian consulate react to vandalism at BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in New York
BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in New York
US lawmakers and the Consulate General of India in New York havecondemned the vandalism of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York. On Monday (Sep 16), images and videos surfaced on social media, showing the defaced temple with extremists painting slogans such as 'F**k Modi' and‘Modi is Terrorist’.
“The vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, is unacceptable; The Consulate General of India in New York is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with USlaw enforcement authorities for prompt action against the perpetrators of this heinous act," the Indian consulate said in a post on X.
'Bigotry and hate'
US Congress leaders condemned the incident by calling it an act of "bigotry and hate" which was happening due to incendiary "rhetoric by national leaders".
"There is too much hate! I am appalled by the hideous acts of vandalism targeting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville," saidUS Congressman Tom Suozzi.
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"Such acts of vandalism, bigotry, and hate are happening far too often because of inflammatory rhetoric by national leaders, extremism, and lack of accountability. Acts like these are un-American and contradict the core values of our nation."
Congressman Ro Khanna also reacted to the vandalism and sought accountability to avert similar incidents in future.
"Freedom of worship is a bedrock of our democracy. There is no place for acts of intimidation, harassment or violence," Khanna said.
After the incident, BAPS issued a statement, claiming that the act was 'aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus'.
"Deeply saddened by the desecration of our BAPS Mandir in Melville, NY, an act aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus. Today, local, state & federal leaders gathered to promote peace, respect & unity. Guided by our faith, we stand united against hate with compassion & solidarity," BAPS Public Affairs wrote on X.
Watch |Gravitas: Hindu temple vandalised again in Canada
Hindus demonised
Last month, members of a local church protested against the newly unveiled 90-foot bronze statue of Hindu god, Lord Hanuman, at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, roughly 35 km from Houston.
The leader of the church, Greg Gervais, called Lord Hanuman a 'demon god' in one of the viral Facebook videos as his followers gathered near the statue, praying and proselytising until one temple leader threatened to call the police.
(With inputs from agencies)