BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in California Vandalized with Anti-India Messages

California, USA – In yet another act of vandalism targeting Hindu places of worship in the United States, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, California, was desecrated with anti-India messages on Sunday. The incident marks the latest in a series of attacks on Hindu temples across the country in recent months.

Hindu Community Condemns the Act

The BAPS Public Affairs Office condemned the vandalism, describing it as a hateful attack on the Hindu community. “In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root,” the organisation stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Reaffirming their commitment to peace and unity, BAPS added, "Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail."

A Pattern of Hate Crimes Against Hindu Temples

This latest act of vandalism follows a similar incident in Sacramento, California, in September last year, where the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was defaced with the message “Hindus go back.” The Sacramento Police Department has since classified the incident as a potential hate crime and launched an investigation. Additionally, the suspect was reported to have damaged the temple’s water lines.

Just weeks before the Sacramento attack, another BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, was similarly defaced with hate-filled graffiti. The Consulate General of India in New York strongly condemned the attack, calling it “unacceptable” and urging US authorities to take necessary action.

Concerns Over Rising Anti-Hindu Sentiment

The recurring desecration of Hindu temples in the US has raised concerns among Hindu American communities and religious leaders. These incidents highlight the growing need for stronger law enforcement measures and greater awareness to combat hate crimes and religious intolerance.

Authorities are continuing their investigations into the Chino Hills incident, with community leaders urging for swift justice and enhanced protection for places of worship.