US lawmakers, officials condemn vandalism of temple in New York

Bipartisan lawmakers across the US have strongly condemned the vandalism at a Hindu temple here and called for an investigation into the incident, asserting that America must stand together against all forms of hate.

The road and the signage outside the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, were sprayed with expletives on Monday, according to footage shared online. The BAPS Public Affairs said in a post on X that it was deeply saddened by the desecration of the temple, calling it an "act aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus".

"Today, local, state & federal leaders gathered to promote peace, respect and unity. Guided by our faith, we stand united against hate with compassion and solidarity," it said.

Melville is located in in Suffolk County, on Long Island and is about 28 kilometres from the 16,000-seater Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address a mega community event on September 22.

US lawmakers across party lines strongly condemned the vandalism, calling for perpetrators to be held accountable.

Democratic Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois said he was "appalled by the despicable acts" of vandalism targeting the temple. "As our country faces a surge in political violence and acts of bigotry, we must stand together as Americans against all forms of hate," he said.