Vandals Deface BAPS Hindu Temple In Chino Hills, CA

India-West News Desk

CHINO HILLS, CA – The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir here, the largest Hindu temple in California, was vandalized on March 8, with security footage capturing the moment two individuals defaced the temple’s welcome sign and sidewalk with spray paint. One of the messages scrawled on the ground read “F— Modi.”

Temple members discovered the graffiti the following morning and reported it to authorities. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, which is investigating the incident, estimates the damages at $15,000. As of now, no arrests have been made.

The temple later shared surveillance footage, showing two vandals clad in dark clothing defacing the property. Community members and Hindu organizations have condemned the act, calling it a troubling escalation of anti-Hindu sentiment in the United States.

“In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate,” BAPS said in a statement. “Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail.”

This attack marks the third instance of vandalism targeting a BAPS temple in recent months. In September 2023, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sacramento was defaced, just days after another BAPS temple in New York was similarly targeted.

The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) linked the Chino Hills vandalism to ongoing political tensions, specifically citing the upcoming ‘Khalistan referendum’ scheduled to take place in Los Angeles. “Not surprising this happens as the day for a so-called ‘Khalistan referendum’ in LA draws close,” CoHNA stated, adding that the rise in online hate speech has led to real-world attacks against the Hindu community.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) also condemned the attack, calling for a full investigation and urging law enforcement to ensure that places of worship remain safe. “This latest attack is continuing proof of the rising level of anti-Hindu hate,” HAF stated.

The vandalism has drawn condemnation from Indian officials. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, strongly denounced the act, stating, “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.”

As authorities continue their investigation, the incident has fueled renewed concerns over the safety of religious institutions and the broader implications of rising anti-immigrant sentiment.