Melbourne/IBNS: The High Commission of India on Friday strongly condemned the alarming incidents of vandalization, including of three Hindu temples in Melbourne in recent weeks.
“The frequency and impunity with which the vandals appear to be operating are alarming, as are the graffiti which includes the glorification of anti-Indian terrorists. These incidents are clear attempts to sow hatred and division among the peaceful multi-faith and multi-cultural Indian-Australian community,” read a statement issued by the Indian High Commission in Australia.
“Signals that pro-Khalistan elements are stepping up their activities in Australia, actively aided and abetted by members of proscribed terrorist organizations such as the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and other inimical agencies from outside Australia, have been evident for some time,” it said.
“Our concerns have repeatedly been shared with the Australian Government, both by the High Commission and our Consulates in Australia and by our Government with the Australian High Commission in Delhi. It is hoped that not only will the perpetrators be brought to justice but suitable action will also be taken to prevent further attempts,” it said.
In addition, our concerns about the so-called referendum in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia, announced by the proscribed organization, the Sikhs for Justice, have been conveyed to the Australian Government.
It has been highlighted to the Australian Government to ensure the safety and security of members of the Indian community and their properties in Australia, and to not allow the use of Australian territory for activities detrimental to the territorial integrity, security and national interest of India.
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple in Melbourne was recently vandalized as Hindu hate and pro-Khalistan graffiti were sprayed on the wall.
In the early hours of Monday morning, temple management found the walls of the revered temple vandalized with graffiti “Hindustan Murdabad” which can be translated as “Death to Hindu place”, reports The Australia Today.
Bhakta Das, Director of Communication for ISKCON Temple told the newspaper, “We are shocked and outraged with this blatant disregard for respect for the place of worship.
Shivesh Pandey an IT consultant and devotee of ISKCON temple told The Australia Today, “In the last two weeks, Victoria Police has failed to take any decisive action against the people who are running their hate-filled agenda against the peaceful Hindu community.”
Acting Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan told The Australia Today, “All Victorians deserve to practice their faith free from racism, vilification, and hatred.”
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