In a disturbing incident, the Swaminarayan temple in Newark, California, fell victim to an act of vandalism, with anti-India graffiti defacing its exterior wall. The temple administration, shocked by the discovery, promptly reported the incident to local authorities. The Newark Police Service has launched a thorough investigation into the matter, treating it as a targeted act of defacement.
Jonathan Arguello, a police captain for Newark, emphasized the seriousness of the situation during a press conference. The police are treating the incident as a hate crime and are utilizing surveillance footage from neighboring residences to piece together the events leading to the defacement. The authorities are committed to handling the investigation with utmost care and sensitivity.
This unfortunate event is not isolated, as similar incidents have occurred recently. Temples have been targeted with anti-India graffiti, raising concerns about the safety of religious institutions. The Newark Police’s swift response and commitment to addressing the issue as a hate crime demonstrate the gravity with which such acts are taken in the community.
International Context and Concerns
The incident comes in the wake of the US Justice Department unveiling an indictment against an Bharat national involved in an alleged plot to assassinate Bharat-designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. While the Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern over the case, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that a few incidents would not affect US-Bharat ties.
PM Modi acknowledged the rising tide of anti-India extremism abroad, expressing deep concern about the activities of certain extremist groups. He highlighted the importance of security and counter-terrorism cooperation in the mature and stable partnership between the two nations.
This incident follows previous attacks on Bharat establishments abroad. The Bharat Consulate in San Francisco was allegedly attacked by Khalistanis, with videos circulating on social media showing supporters breaking doors and raising pro-Khalistan slogans. Additionally, a Hindu temple in Canada was defaced with Khalistan referendum posters in August, shedding light on the persistence of such extremist activities.
As investigations continue into the defacement of the Swaminarayan temple in California, communities and authorities are urged to work together to ensure the safety and security of religious institutions, fostering an environment of tolerance and respect.
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