The recent vandalism of a Hindu temple in New York is being investigated as a possible hate crime. Miscreants defaced the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple with spray paint, targeting Indian prime minister Narendra Modi. The incident occurred just days before Modi’s scheduled visit, prompting condemnation from the Indian consulate and a call for action from US authorities.
The Suffolk police’s Hate Crimes Unit is investigating the graffiti, which included threatening and derogatory messages. Leaders from the BAPS organization, along with US officials, held a prayer meeting at the site to promote unity and denounce hate. The incident follows similar acts of vandalism at Hindu temples in Canada.
In a show of solidarity, the Hindu-American foundation has urged the US Justice Department to open an investigation into the vandalism. This act of hate goes against the values of peace and harmony that the temple stands for. With support from various faiths and communities, the message of unity and compassion shines through in the face of adversity.
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