Attack on Swaminarayan Temple in New York: Offensive Slogans Written in Spray Paint, India Protests

Ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US, there has been a case of vandalism at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in New York. The incident involved defacing the temple’s pathways and signs outside the temple in Melville with derogatory slogans.

Indian Consulate’s Strong Condemnation of Temple Vandalism

The Indian Consulate in New York has strongly condemned the vandalism at the temple, calling it a reprehensible act. The consulate has raised the matter with American authorities to take action against the perpetrators. Additionally, BAPS has issued a call for peace.

"The vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, is unacceptable; The Consulate @IndiainNewYork is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with U.S. law enforcement authorities for prompt action against the perpetrators of this heinous act,"… pic.twitter.com/zcKaHwxMC5

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 16, 2024

Prime Minister Modi’s US Visit on September 22

Melville, located approximately 28 kilometers from the Nassau Veteran Memorial Coliseum in Suffolk County on Long Island, is the site where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a major community event on September 22. PM Modi will be on his US visit from September 21 to 23.

There is too much hate!

I am appalled by the hideous acts of vandalism targeting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville. Such acts of vandalism, bigotry, and hate are happening far too often because of inflammatory rhetoric by national leaders, extremism, and lack of… pic.twitter.com/LoO5htkTHU

— Tom Suozzi (@RepTomSuozzi) September 16, 2024

Hindu American Foundation Calls for Investigation

The Hindu American Foundation has also condemned the attack and called for an investigation by the American government. 

According to reports, the organization has requested the Department of Justice and DHS to investigate the attack on the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville and recent threats against Hindu organizations. 

Additionally, a large gathering of the Indian community is planned for this weekend in Nassau County.