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India has expressed strong condemnation after the vandalism of Swaminarayan Temple in Newark, California. This incident related to anti-India graffiti is suspected to have been carried out by pro-Khalistan activists. This has drawn a sharp reaction from the Indian Consulate in San Francisco. It has demanded prompt investigation and action from US authorities.
“We strongly condemn the defacement of the SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in Newark, California with anti-India graffiti. The sentiments of the Indian community have been hurt by this incident. “We have pressed for a prompt investigation and swift action against the perpetrators of sabotage by the US authorities in this matter,” the Consulate General of India in San Francisco posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The graffiti was discovered by a devotee living nearby, who immediately informed the local administration. Temple spokesperson, Bhargav Rawal, said that the temple authorities were shocked to see the anti-Indian sentiments displayed on the temple walls.
The Newark Police Service has launched an investigation into the vandalism, believing it to be a targeted act. Police Captain Jonathan Arguello assured complete thoroughness and sensitivity in the investigation. Efforts are being made to link the chain of events, surveillance footage from neighboring houses is being examined.
“Based on the graffiti, we believe this was a targeted act, and it will be investigated thoroughly,” ANI quoted Arguello as saying. “We are deeply saddened when these types of actions occur, and we think they are senseless and have no place for them. “We will not tolerate them here in Newark.”
no separate attack
This incident is not alone. The Indian Consulate in San Francisco was earlier attacked by Khalistani supporters, who entered the office, raised pro-Khalistan slogans and put up Khalistani flags. A Hindu temple in British Columbia, Canada also faced defacement with Khalistan referendum posters, reflecting a series of targeted acts against Indian establishments abroad.
(With ANI inputs)
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Published: 23 Dec 2023, 11:49 am IST
