In a violent event, a third Hindu temple was vandalised in Australia’s Melbourne on Monday. The temple’s walls were damaged with anti-India and pro-khalistan slogans written, that stated, “Khalistan Zindabad, Hindustan Murdabad and Sant Bhindrawale is Martyr.”
This is the third Hindu temple that was vandalised in the month of January by suspected khalistan-supporters.
On January 12, BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in the Mill park area of Melbourne was vandalised and on January 16, Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Australia’s Carrum Downs was vandalised with anti-Hindu graffiti written on walls of the temples.
Shivesh Pandey, a devotee of ISKCON temple said that Victoria Police has failed to take any action against people who are running a “hate-filled agenda” against the Hindu community in Australia.
Meanwhile, Australian High Commissioner to India, Barry O’Farrell, condemned the vandalization.
“I am gravely concerned by the mindless vandalism of Hindu temples in Victoria. Australia does not tolerate hate speech or violence and Australian authorities are investigating,” he said in a statement given to media.
He also recalled Australia’s Foreign Minister and said, “the Indian diaspora are valued and important contributors to our vibrant and resilient multicultural society.”
Farell also said that Australia values diversity and inclusion and also respects the right of individuals to engage in peaceful protest, and supports the non-violent expression of views.
The Australian Government will continue to work closely with faith leaders to promote community harmony, he added.