Millicent Spencer
Community leaders have condemned the recent vandalism of two Hindu places of worship, including the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in Mill Park.
Last Thursday the gates of the Mill Park temple were graffitied with anti-Indian sentiment.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir issued a statement in response to the vandalism.
“We are deeply saddened by the anti-India graffiti at the gates of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Mill Park, Melbourne, Australia by anti-social elements,” the statement said.
“The BAPS temple in Mill Park, like all temples of BAPS worldwide, is an abode of peace, harmony, equality, selfless service, and universal Hindu values.
“At this time, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, has prayed for peace and unity and has appealed to all devotees and well-wishers to maintain peace.
“We are thankful to the appropriate authorities, including the governments of Australia and India as well as local community organisations, for their continued support.”
A Victoria Police spokesperson said they are investigating reports of criminal damage in Mill Park on Thursday, January 12.
“It is understood offenders wrote racist graffiti on a temple in Heaths Court in the early hours of the morning,” the spokesperson said.
“We take any report of racism seriously, including in the form of graffiti, and we encourage anyone with information about this type of activity to report it to police.
“Police will often engage with local council to ensure the swift removal of any racist or offensive material when a report is made.”
Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio said she reached to the Mandir to express her concern with the attack on the temple.
“The Mandir is a very important place of worship across broader Melbourne and is used to host many events that grow a better understanding amongst us all of the rich diversity of our community,” she said.
“I have had the honour of visiting on many occasions and hope that the appropriate authorities can identify those responsible and bring them to account.
“There is no place in our community for such attacks.
“I wish every member of the BAPS community peace, harmony and good will.”
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV footage or information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
