Hateful Attacks Against Hindus in the U.S. – Vandalization of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir

• On March 9, 2025, the BAPS temple in Chino Hills, California, was vandalized with anti-Indian graffiti, likely by Khalistan supporters, raising concerns about extremism.
• A small radical group is pushing for an independent Sikh state, but most Sikhs do not support it.
• The Khalistan Referendum is being held in Canada, the UK, and the US, but is linked to violence and extremist activities.
• Hindu organizations and leaders demand strict action, greater awareness, and unity to fight hate crimes and extremism.

 On March 9, 2025, the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) reported that its Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California, had been vandalized. This largest Hindu temple in California was defaced with anti-Indian graffiti, including the phrase “Hindustan Murdabad,” meaning “Death to Hindustan.” The attack happened just days before a Khalistan referendum event in California, raising concerns about growing extremism.

The attack is believed to have been carried out by Khalistan supporters, a small radical group that wants to separate Punjab from India. This incident has angered and saddened the Hindu community. Many Hindu organizations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), have strongly condemned the attack, calling for strict action against those responsible. The Indian government has also criticized this act of hate. This event highlights the importance of peace, respect, and unity among different communities.

The Khalistan Referendum is being organized outside of India by a small extremist group to gather international support for the Khalistan movement, which seeks to separate part of Punjab from India. While this movement calls for an independent Sikh state, it is important to note that most Sikhs do not support it. The majority of Sikhs in India and around the world believe in unity and peace and do not want Punjab to break away from India.

The referendum is being held in countries like Canada, the UK, and the US, where pro-Khalistan groups attempt to gain global attention. However, this movement has been linked to violent protests and extremist activities, raising concerns for many people. The Indian government strongly opposes it, viewing it as a threat to national unity. Despite the efforts of some radicals, the Khalistan movement lacks significant support and remains a controversial issue.

The attack on the BAPS Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California, is just one of many examples of hate against Hindus being spread by extremist groups in the West. Hinduphobia, or hatred toward Hindus, is not discussed enough, but incidents like this show that hostility toward Hindus and India is increasing. Sadly, many similar attacks have been ignored, proving that anti-Hindu hate crimes do not get enough attention.

This attack is a reminder that the Hindu community must come together and stand up for their rights. Many Hindu organizations and leaders have spoken out against this crime, demanding strict action from authorities. The local police are currently investigating, and many people hope the government will take action to support the Hindu community. Raising awareness and fighting extremism is crucial to ensuring that all communities can live peacefully and safely.

Summary

The attack on the BAPS temple and the Khalistan movement show the rising extremism and hate crimes against Hindus. It is important for communities to come together and stand against violence. By raising awareness, promoting peace, and demanding justice, we can help create a safer and more united society.

Sources

https://x.com/BAPS_PubAffairs/status/1898489613334770142

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/baps-hindu-temple-in-californias-chino-hills-vandalised/articleshow/118812843.cms

https://ktla.com/news/local-news/authorities-investigating-after-southern-california-temple-vandalized-with-political-messages/

https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/world/hindu-temple-vandalised-in-california-with-anti-india-graffiti-baps-says-will-never-let-hate-take-root-latest-updates-2025-03-09-979768

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/violent-disruption-india-on-temple-attack-by-pro-khalistan-radicals-in-canada-101730699712201.html