Investigation Launched into Vandalism at Chino Hills Hindu Temple
A Hindu temple located in Southern California was vandalized over the weekend, prompting an investigation by local authorities. The incident, which involved graffiti with political messages, has raised concerns within the community about potential hate-driven acts.
Details of the Incident
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple in Chino Hills was targeted on Saturday, where temple visitors found graffiti including inflammatory phrases against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and references to India’s historical name and a city in Uttar Pradesh. Tags were discovered on a marble sign, a brick wall, and the surrounding sidewalk.
Law enforcement responded to the scene shortly after 9 a.m., working in conjunction with Chino Hills Code Enforcement to address the vandalism. BAPS volunteer Mehul Patel confirmed that as of Sunday, all graffiti had been removed from the temple grounds.
Community Responses
In reaction to the vandalism, BAPS Public Affairs issued a statement emphasizing the community’s commitment to resisting hate. “In the face of another Mandir desecration, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate,” they stated on the social media platform X.
The local Hindu community voiced their concerns over the rising trend of attacks on religious sites, citing other recent incidents involving vandalism or burglary across California. Amidst growing tensions, particularly noted around the upcoming ‘Khalistan referendum’ in Los Angeles, the Coalition of Hindus of North America remarked that this attack highlights a concerning pattern of anti-Hindu sentiment.
Previous Vandalism Incidents
Patel referenced a previous vandalism incident at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, which exhibited similar troubling messages and has not yet led to the apprehension of any suspects. He mentioned that while surveillance footage of the recent incident does exist, the hunt for the suspects is ongoing.
Official Statements and Actions
Assemblymember Ash Kalra expressed his dismay over the incident, affirming his support for the temple and its role in the community. He described the Chino Hills Mandir as a “beautiful place of worship and community building.” Meanwhile, Chino Hills Mayor Art Bennett condemned the act as “hateful,” pledging governmental support to find those responsible.
Broader Context
BAPS is a socio-spiritual Hindu organization that promotes values drawn from the Vedas, and it has been part of the Chino Hills community since 2004. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs also condemned the vandalism, calling for local authorities to act decisively against such actions and to enhance security for places of worship.
Community Solidarity
In light of the vandalism, temple members gathered for a prayer service, with Chino Hills Mayor Bennett in attendance. The event aimed to foster unity in the face of adversity, reinforcing the community’s resilience against hatred.
Conclusion
The incident at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by religious communities regarding acts of vandalism and hate. The investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office is still active, with hopes that justice will be served, restoring peace to the community.
