BAPS temple vandalized in New York, Indian consulate condemns act
What's the story
The Consulate General of India in New York has strongly condemned the recent vandalism at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York. The consulate described the incident as "unacceptable" and has urged United States law enforcement to take swift action against those responsible. Videos circulating online show that expletives were sprayed on the road and signage outside the temple premises.
Ongoing probe
Incident under investigation
Melville is located about 28 kilometers from the 1,600-seat Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to speak at a large community event on September 22, as part of his visit to the United States. The incident took place at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, located at 2, Deshon Drive, between 7:00pm Sunday and 6:30am Monday. The Suffolk County Police Hates Crimes Unit is currently investigating this act of criminal mischief as a potential hate crime.
Twitter Post
Read Indian consulate's statement here
The vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, is unacceptable ; The Consulate @IndiainNewYork is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with U.S. law enforcement authorities for prompt action against the perpetrators of this heinous act.…
— India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) September 16, 2024
Public reaction
Community response and previous threats
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) has also called on the US Justice Department to investigate the attack on the temple. The HAF also highlighted recent threats to Hindu institutions in a social media post. The foundation drew parallels between this incident and similar attacks on temples in California and Canada. In response to the vandalism, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha issued a press release strongly condemning these acts and expressing their commitment to peace among all communities.
Lawmaker response
US lawmakers condemn temple vandalism, call for unity
Meanwhile, US Representatives Nick LaLota and Tom Suozzi expressed their condemnation of the incident on social media. LaLota stated he was "deeply saddened by the desecration of our BAPS Mandir in Melville, NY," describing it as an act aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus. Suozzi echoed these sentiments, expressing his shock over "hideous acts of vandalism targeting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville."