BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, was vandalized on Monday, with hateful messages spray-painted on its driveway and sign. Suffolk police reported that the incident occurred between 7 p.m. Sunday and 6:30 a.m. Monday, and the Suffolk County Police Hate Crimes Unit is now investigating it as a hate crime. The Consulate General of India in New York condemned the vandalism, labeling it “unacceptable,” and has raised the issue with U.S. authorities. In a post on X, the Consulate stated, “The vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville is unacceptable; we are in touch with the community and U.S. law enforcement for prompt action against those responsible for this heinous act.”
In a statement, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir expressed concern that this act of vandalism is part of a troubling trend, noting that similar desecrations have occurred at Hindu temples across North America. The temple called for peace, respect, and harmony among all communities, emphasizing these values as essential to religious freedom in the United States. Community members and local lawmakers gathered at the temple site to offer prayers for peace and unity. U.S. Representatives Nick LaLota and Tom Suozzi joined the gathering, both condemning the act. LaLota said, “Deeply saddened by the desecration of our BAPS Mandir in Melville, NY, an act aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus. We stand united against hate.” Suozzi added, “There is too much hate! I am appalled by the vandalism targeting the BAPS Mandir. Such acts contradict the core values of our nation.”
The BAPS statement reiterated that the temple represents peace and universal Hindu values, confirming that local authorities were alerted and that the temple is cooperating fully with the investigation. Condemnations and calls for accountability came from several Indian American lawmakers, including Ro Khanna and Niraj Antani. Khanna stated, “I strongly condemn this act of desecration of a Hindu temple. Freedom of worship is fundamental to our democracy.” Antani echoed this sentiment, calling the incident a distressing example of Hinduphobia and demanding swift justice.
Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick also expressed his outrage, emphasizing that attacks on places of worship are attacks on fundamental values. He called for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the community. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) has called on the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the incident, especially as it comes just before a major Indian community event. HAF highlighted that recent threats from Khalistani extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun against Hindu and Indian institutions amplify concerns, noting similarities to previous attacks on temples in California and Canada. This incident is not the first targeting BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, as similar attacks have been reported in places like Edmonton, Canada.
