The BAPS Hindu Temple in Chino Hills, California, was vandalized with inflammatory messages just days before the planned ‘Khalistan referendum’ in Los Angeles. This act of desecration has sparked widespread condemnation from the Hindu community and calls for unity against hate.
The official BAPS United States page shared details of the incident on social media platform X, reaffirming their commitment to peace and compassion. “In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail,” wrote BAPS Public Affairs.
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) also addressed the incident on X, linking the vandalism to the upcoming ‘Khalistan referendum’ in LA. “Another Hindu Temple vandalized – this time the iconic BAPS temple in Chino Hills, CA. It’s just another day in a world where media and academics will insist there is no anti-Hindu hate and that #Hinduphobia is just a construct of our imagination. Not surprising this happens as the day for a so-called ‘Khalistan referendum’ in LA draws close.”
CoHNA highlighted a troubling pattern of temple attacks, listing similar incidents from 2022 onward and calling for a thorough investigation into the matter. The organization remains dedicated to improving the understanding of Hinduism in North America and addressing issues impacting the Hindu community.
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, California, was also vandalized on September 25 last year, less than 10 days after a similar attack on the BAPS Mandir in New York. These incidents included hateful messages like “Hindus go back,” causing alarm and concern among the local Hindu community.
In response, community members have reaffirmed their commitment to standing united against hate and ensuring that peace and compassion ultimately prevail.
