Hindu Mahasabha Chief Condemns Second Attack on BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in 10 Days

Swami Chakrapani Maharaj condemned the recent vandalism of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in California, the second attack in under ten days. He called for increased vigilance by the Indian government and international awareness of Hindu persecution.

Swami Chakrapani Maharaj, President of Hindu Mahasabha, has condemned the recent vandalism of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in California, marking it as the second attack on a BAPS temple in the U.S. within ten days. Expressing concern over what he described as the growing persecution of Hindus globally, Chakrapani pointed out, 'From America to the whole world, Hindus are being persecuted, harassed, and temples are being demolished.' He referenced a survey by an American firm indicating that while minorities are receiving justice in India, Hindus face persecution in the U.S.

Chakrapani noted the rising violence against Hindus in the U.S., mentioning a recent incident where a Hindu priest was shot publicly. He criticized American authorities for their inaction, stating, 'America does not take any action on it.' Additionally, he highlighted the ongoing persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh, remarking that FIRs were filed against Hindu Mahasabha members who protested. He urged the Indian government to be more vigilant and proactive in addressing these issues.

He implored the government to raise the issue of Hindu persecution on international platforms, noting the lack of official comments when such atrocities occur. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, California was vandalized on the night of September 25, less than ten days after a similar incident at the BAPS Mandir in New York. Vandalism messages included 'Hindus go back,' alarming the local Hindu community. The community expressed its unity against hate. 'Less than 10 days after the desecration of the BAPS Mandir in New York, our Mandir in Sacramento was desecrated with anti-Hindu hate: 'Hindus go back!' We stand united against hate with prayers for peace,' said the BAPS Public Affairs on X.

The Sacramento County Sheriff's Office reported discovering the vandalism and noted that water lines on the temple's property were cut. U.S. Representative Ami Bera condemned the act, stating, 'There is no place for religious bigotry and hatred in Sacramento County.' The Hindu American Foundation acknowledged Bera's response, declaring the act an anti-Hindu hate crime.

On September 17, another vandalism incident occurred at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in New York. The Consulate General of India in New York condemned the incident as 'unacceptable,' and several U.S. lawmakers demanded accountability for the repeated hate acts. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)