BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in New York Vandalized with Hate Messages
New York [US], September 17: The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) has condemned the vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, which was defaced with hateful messages. This incident is part of a troubling pattern of similar acts at Hindu temples across North America.
In a press release, BAPS expressed their sadness and called for peace and tolerance. They offered prayers for the perpetrators to be freed from their hatred and to recognize our shared humanity. BAPS emphasized the importance of peace, respect, and harmony for all, regardless of background or faith, as fundamental to religious freedom in the United States.
BAPS is cooperating fully with authorities to support the investigation into this hate crime. The Consulate General of India in New York also condemned the vandalism, calling it unacceptable and urging prompt action against those responsible.
Community members, along with local, state, and federal leaders, gathered at the temple to offer prayers for peace and unity. Notable attendees included US Representatives Nick LaLota and Tom Suozzi, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, and various other officials and community leaders.
Representatives from organizations such as the NAACP, local synagogues, churches, and the American Jewish Committee also showed their support. BAPS spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj offered prayers for peace and harmony.
The Hindu American Foundation has called on the US Justice Department to investigate the attack, noting that it follows recent threats to Hindu institutions by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Similar attacks have occurred in California and Canada.
Doubts Revealed
BAPS Swaminarayan Temple -: BAPS stands for Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, a Hindu religious and social organization. The Swaminarayan Temple is a place where people go to pray and worship.
Vandalized -: Vandalized means someone damaged or destroyed property on purpose. In this case, it means someone wrote or did something bad to the temple.
Hate Messages -: Hate messages are mean or harmful words written to hurt or scare people. They are often based on someone’s religion, race, or other personal traits.
Melville, New York -: Melville is a place in the state of New York in the United States. It’s where the temple is located.
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha -: This is the organization that runs the Swaminarayan temples. They help people with religious activities and community services.
North America -: North America is a continent that includes countries like the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Authorities -: Authorities are people or groups in charge, like the police or government officials. They help keep order and investigate crimes.
Consulate General of India -: The Consulate General of India is an office that helps Indian citizens in other countries. They also work to keep good relations between India and other countries.
Hindu American Foundation -: The Hindu American Foundation is a group that supports the rights and interests of Hindu people in America. They work to make sure Hindus are treated fairly.
Perpetrators -: Perpetrators are the people who did something wrong or illegal. In this case, they are the ones who vandalized the temple.