In a disturbing incident, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, California, was desecrated with anti-Hindu graffiti, including messages like “Hindus go back.” This act of vandalism comes less than 10 days after a similar attack on a temple in New York.
The BAPS Public Affairs posted on X (formerly Twitter), condemning the hate crime:
“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.”
The Sacramento Police have classified the vandalism as a hate crime and have launched an investigation. Officers and CSI are currently examining the scene to gather evidence. Reports suggest that the vandals also cut water lines at the property, further escalating the severity of the attack.
This incident follows another shocking case of vandalism on September 16, when the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, was defaced with hate-filled messages on its driveway and signage. The Indian Consulate in New York condemned the act and has urged US law enforcement to take prompt action against the perpetrators.
The Hindu American Foundation has also called for an investigation by the Justice Department and Department of Homeland Security, labeling the attack as cowardly and unacceptable. This is not an isolated incident—Hindu temples in both the US and Canada have experienced a surge in hate-fueled vandalism in recent months.
In July, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Edmonton, Canada, was similarly targeted. Canadian MP Chandra Arya expressed deep concern over the growing violence against Hindu-Canadian communities, which mirrors the attacks seen across North America.
