‘Too much hate’: US lawmakers react to vandalism at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in New York | India News – Times of India

NEW DEHLI: United States Congress leaders on Tuesday openly criticized the vandalism bee BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in New York Melvilleand called it acts of “intolerance and hatred” created by “inflammatory rhetoric from national leaders.”
US leaders condemned the act, which has provoked strong reactions from various quarters, and demanded that it be investigated as a “hate crime” and that measures be taken to ensure that such incidents do not happen again.
“There is too much hate! I am appalled by the heinous acts of vandalism targeting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville. Such acts of vandalism, bigotry and hatred happen far too often due to the inflammatory rhetoric of national leaders, extremismand lack of accountability. Actions like these are un-American and contrary to our nation’s core values,” wrote U.S. Congressman Tom Suozzi.
Another US Congressman, Ro Khanna, strongly condemned the desecration of the temple, saying: “Freedom of worship is a cornerstone of our democracy. There is no place for intimidation, harassment or violence.” Khanna also wanted accountability to prevent a similar incident in the future.
New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar called for an investigation, saying “religious freedom is a fundamental American value that we must protect.”
“I condemn the vandalism of the BAPS Hindu Temple, a beacon of spirituality and inclusivity beloved by the community. I call for this to be investigated as a hate crime. Freedom of worship is a fundamental American value that we must protect,” said Jenifer Rajkumar.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, was vandalized on Monday.
The Indian Consulate in New York expressed strong disapproval of the law, calling it “unacceptable.”
The incident took place in Melville, Suffolk County, about 17 miles from the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend a large number of community event at this location on September 22.
Following the incident, BAPS issued a statement claiming that the act was “aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus”.
“Deeply saddened by the desecration of our BAPS Mandir in Melville, NY, an act aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus. Today, local, state and federal leaders came together to promote peace, respect and unity. Guided by our faith, we stand united against hate with compassion and solidarity,” BAPS Public Affairs wrote on X.