Indian-American Congressman Suhas Subramanyam has condemned the recent attacks and vandalism targeting Hindu temples across the United States, describing them as part of a broader rise in hate and division threatening religious communities nationwide.
Speaking on the House Floor at Capitol Hill, Subramanyam cited incidents at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Indiana and the ISKCON Shri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah, stressing that these were not isolated cases but symptoms of a disturbing national trend.
“Hate has no place in our communities. From the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Indiana to the Shri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah, sacred spaces have been targeted with vandalism and desecration. These are not isolated incidents—they are part of a rise in violence and division in our country. And it’s not just happening to temples; it’s happening to all places of worship,” he said.
The Congressman called for a comprehensive response, urging greater federal support to safeguard religious institutions and renewed efforts from government leaders, law enforcement, and communities to address the growing climate of hate.
“Every American deserves the right to safely practise their faith without fear. That’s why we must fight for increased security resources for places of worship and commit to doing more to combat the rise in hate in our country,” he added.
The condemnation comes after a series of recent incidents:
- Greenwood, Indiana (August 2025): The BAPS Swaminarayan Temple was vandalised, marking the fourth anti-Hindu desecration at a US temple within a year. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha called it a “hate crime” and vowed to remain united against bigotry.
- Spanish Fork, Utah (July 2025): The ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, globally renowned for its annual Holi Festival, was attacked in a suspected hate crime. Between 20 and 30 bullets were fired at the temple and surrounding property over several nights while devotees were inside, causing severe structural damage to its intricately carved arches.
Temple authorities and community leaders have described these acts as alarming reminders of rising intolerance and urged authorities to take stronger action.