In yet another incident of vandalism of Hindu shrines in Australia by alleged Khalistani supporters, a temple was targeted in Victoria state with anti-India graffiti on Monday. It is the third such incident within a fortnight in Australia.
The management of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple also known as the Hare Krishna Temple in Melbourne’s Albert Park on Monday morning found the walls of the revered temple vandalised with graffiti “Hindustan Murdabad”, The Australia Today website reported. “We are shocked and outraged with this blatant disregard for respect for the place of worship,” Bhakta Das, Director of Communication for ISKCON Temple, said. “A complaint has been filed with Victoria Police and CCTV footage is being provided to assist them in their pursuit of culprits.” This is the third such incident in the country within a fortnight.
On January 16, the historic Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs, Victoria, was vandalised in a similar manner. On January 12, the Swaminarayan temple in Melbourne was defaced by ‘anti-social elements’ with anti-India graffiti. Acting Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan told The Australia Today, “All Victorians deserve to practice their faith free from racism, vilification and hatred.” “This behaviour is not reflective of the majority of Victorians. The diversity of Victoria is one of our strongest assets, and we condemn these attacks,” Allan added.
