Temple attacked in US; India demands adequate security

India on Sunday strongly condemned the vandalism at a temple in California and called for adequate security at places of worship.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, termed the attack "despicable" and urged local authorities to take stringent action against those responsible. "We have seen reports regarding the vandalism at a Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California. We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms. We call upon the local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for these acts, and also ensure adequate security to places of worship," he said.

Days ahead of a so-called Khalistani referendum in Los Angeles, a BAPS Hindu Temple located in Chino Hills was desecrated with hate messages. BAPS shared the details of the incident on X, saying that they will "never let hate take root" and that peace and compassion shall prevail.


In a post on X, BAPS wrote, "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."

The Chino Hills Police Department is yet to issue an official statement on the matter. The Coalition of Hindus of North America said the desecration of the iconic BAPS Temple in California comes ahead of the "so-called Khalistan referendum" in Los Angeles. The 'anti-Hindu' messages included phrases such as "Hindus go back".

This incident occurred less than 10 days after a similar incident at the BAPS Mandir in New York.