Pro-Khalistan group defaces US temple, India calls it ‘despicable’

NEW DELHI: The Indian govt condemned the vandalisation of a Hindu temple in California by Khalistan separatists, calling it a despicable act and seeking action against the culprits and adequate security for places of worship.
“We have seen reports regarding the vandalism at a Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California. We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
“We call upon the local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for these acts, and also ensure adequate security to places of worship,” he added. The incident took place days ahead of the so-called Khalistan referendum in Los Angeles.
The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) on Saturday (March 8, 2025) said the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills faced desecration. “In the face of another mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root,” BAPS Public Affairs posted on X.
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) also shared details of the incident on X and said the desecration of the iconic BAPS temple in California comes ahead of the “so called Khalistan referendum” in Los Angeles.
The ‘anti-Hindu’ messages included phrases such as ‘Hindus go back’, alarming the local Hindu community.