ISKCON temple targeted in US: Over a dozen gunfire in suspected hate crime; India urges authorities for ‘prompt action’

More than two dozen bullets were fired at The ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple located in Spanish Fork, Utah, United States over many days, which has led to structural damage. The series of shooting cases is believed to be a suspected hate crime. India has condemned the incident and sought swift action.

Nearly 20 to 30 bullets were fired at the premises where building and nearby property were targeted during nighttime hours as devotees and others were inside. It has caused thousands of dollars in damage, comprising the temple's intricately hand-carved arches.

“We strongly condemn the recent firing incident at the ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna temple in Spanish Fork, Utah. The Consulate extends full support to all the devotees and the community and urges the local authorities to take prompt action to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the Consulate General of India in San Francisco said.

In a separate incident which took place earlier this year when, on March 9, a Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California, was discovered desecrated days prior to a so-called 'Khalistani referendum' in Los Angeles, the temple authorities had said.

The official page of BAPS for the United States posted the details of the March 9 desecration on X and stressed on the strength of the community. Its public officer said, “In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate... Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail.”

The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) also raised it on X, connecting it to increasing anti-Hindu sentiment and stating that the vandalism came moments prior to the organised 'Khalistan referendum' in Los Angeles.

While putting out other recent temple vandalism incidents since 2022 and demanding a probe, CoHNA said, “Another Hindu Temple vandalised, this time the iconic BAPS temple in Chino Hills, CA... Not surprisingly, this happens as the day for a so-called 'Khalistan referendum' in LA draws close.”

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento, California, was also attacked last year in an act of vandalism on the night of September 25. This incident occurred shortly after a similar attack on BAPS temple in New York.

Phrases like "Hindus go back" were discovered written during these attacks, causing deep concern within the local Hindu community. Despite ongoing provocations, community leaders remain steadfast in expressing their unity and dedication to standing against hate.

(With inputs from ANI)