In a disturbing act of vandalism, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, California, was defaced with anti-Hindu messages on Wednesday, marking the second such incident targeting a Hindu temple in the United States within 10 days. The vandals spray-painted a “Hindus go back” message on the temple’s walls, prompting outrage and concern from the Hindu community. Additionally, water lines at the property were deliberately cut, causing further damage.
Sacramento Police have classified the incident as a hate crime and have launched an investigation. In a statement, they expressed their commitment to addressing this act of vandalism, adding that they are pursuing leads to identify the culprits responsible for this hate-fueled attack.
In response to the desecration, members of the Hindu community gathered at the temple for a prayer ceremony aimed at promoting harmony and standing against intolerance. BAPS Public Affairs, the organization responsible for the temple, shared images of the event on social media, emphasizing their dedication to peace despite the hate crime. “Inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj, we remain dedicated to promoting harmony and standing against intolerance. Together, we will defeat hate,” the organization said.
Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera condemned the incident, calling for unity in the face of religious bigotry. “There is no place for religious bigotry and hatred in Sacramento County,” Bera said on X (formerly Twitter). He urged the community to stand together against intolerance, ensuring that people of all faiths feel safe and respected.
The attack on the Sacramento temple is not an isolated incident. Earlier this month, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, was also vandalized with hate messages. That incident drew widespread condemnation, including a strong response from the Consulate General of India in New York, which called the act “unacceptable.”
These attacks are part of a disturbing trend targeting Hindu temples in North America. Last year, the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Newark, California, was similarly vandalized with pro-Khalistani slogans. The incident drew international attention, with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar calling for extremists and separatists not to be given space.
As investigations into these incidents continue, the Hindu community is rallying together, determined to resist intolerance and promote unity.
