Anti-India, pro-Khalistan graffiti defaces Hindu temple in California
- Posted on December 23, 2023
- Arts and Culture
- By Arijit Dutta
- 256 Views
In a troubling incident at a Hindu temple in Newark, California, anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti was discovered on its walls. Authorities are investigating the defacement, which has deeply affected the Indian community. Similar incidents in the past have heightened concerns over extremist actions.
Amid
growing concerns over extremist activities, a Hindu temple in California faced
vandalism with anti-India and pro-Khalistan slogans sprayed across its exterior
walls. The Newark Police have initiated a thorough investigation into this
distressing incident, aiming to identify and take action against the
perpetrators.
According
to reports, the Swaminarayan temple in Newark, California, was defaced by
individuals promoting separatist agendas. The distressing graffiti was noticed
by a local devotee who promptly informed the authorities, leading to
condemnation from both local and international Indian communities.
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco strongly denounced the defacement, calling for swift action by US authorities. EAM Dr. S Jaishankar expressed concerns, urging against providing space to extremist elements, while religious leaders emphasized the need for respect and religious freedom.
The
vandalism, including the use of objectionable graffiti and the spray-painting
of the word 'Khalistan' outside the temple, has sparked outrage within the
community. Newark police have classified this as a serious hate-motivated crime
and are actively seeking information from the public to aid their
investigation.
This
incident echoes previous occurrences, raising worries about the resurgence of
extremist Khalistani ideology and its impact on India's diplomatic relations
with countries like Canada, the UK, and the US. Recent events, including
attacks on Indian diplomatic facilities and alleged conspiracies, have
intensified concerns and prompted a call for necessary action.
India
has expressed serious concerns over these incidents and vowed appropriate
action pending the outcome of ongoing investigations. The defacement of the
temple in Newark, California, underscores the pressing need to address
extremist activities and safeguard religious sanctuaries against such divisive
actions.