Washington
More than two dozen American lawmakers have condemned the vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, which occurred just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US. The temple’s signage and road were defaced with expletives on Monday.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer described the act as “vile,” emphasizing that hate has no place in New York or America. Congressman Rich McCormick expressed sadness over the incident, calling it a clear attempt to incite hatred against Hindus. Other lawmakers, including Andy Kim and Brad Sherman, labeled the vandalism as an attack on religious pluralism and urged for those responsible to be held accountable.
Congresswoman Michelle Steel and Congressman Glenn Grothman also denounced the act, stressing the need for unity against hate. Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson linked the incident to broader patterns of bigotry against various immigrant groups, while Grace Meng expressed her dismay, asserting that intolerance must not be tolerated.
The Hindu American Foundation has called for a Department of Justice investigation into the vandalism, underscoring the need for accountability in such acts of hate.
