The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in California was desecrated on Wednesday with anti-Hindu messages like “Hindus go back”. This comes only 10 days after a New York based temple was defaced drawing condemnation from the Indian consulate.
“We stand united against hate with prayers for peace,” the organisation said in a post on X.
Less than 10 days after the desecration of the @BAPS Mandir in New York, our Mandir in the Sacramento, CA area was desecrated last night with anti-Hindu hate: “Hindus go back!” We stand united against hate with prayers for peace.
— BAPS Public Affairs (@BAPS_PubAffairs) September 25, 2024
The Sacramento Police said that they were investigating a “vandalism being classified as a hate crime” at the BAPS Hindu Temple in Mather.
Those who defaced the temple also cut water lines at the property, the police said.
“Detectives and CSI (Crime Scene Investigation) are on scene,” they posted on X.
@sacsheriff and @RanchoCordovaPD are investigating a vandalism being classified as a hate crime at the BAPS Hindu Temple in Mather. Detectives and CSI are on scene. pic.twitter.com/0mAyfhu9JA
— Sacramento Sheriff (@sacsheriff) September 25, 2024
Meanwhile, members of the Hindu community gathered at the temple following the incident for a prayer ceremony to promote “harmony”.
“Community leaders gathered for a heartfelt prayer ceremony at the BAPS Mandir in Sacramento, CA, following the desecration of the mandir. Inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj, we remain dedicated to promoting harmony and standing against intolerance. Together we will defeat hate,” the organisation said while posting pictures on X.
Community leaders gathered for a heartfelt prayer ceremony at the @BAPS Mandir in Sacramento, CA, following the desecration of the mandir. Inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj, we remain dedicated to promoting harmony and standing against intolerance. Together we will defeat hate. pic.twitter.com/LVBUAkCBnh
— BAPS Public Affairs (@BAPS_PubAffairs) September 26, 2024
