India Says Vandalisation Of Hindu Temples In Australia 'Deeply Disturbing', Signals Of Increasing Pro-Khalistan Activities

India on Thursday (26 January) strongly condemned the recent vandalisation of three Hindu temples here and the graffiti on them which included the glorification of anti-India terrorists in Australia.

Earlier this month, three Hindu temples - the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Melbourne, the historic Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs, Victoria and the ISKCON temple - in Melbourne were defaced by Khalistan supporters with anti-India graffiti.

"The frequency and impunity with which the vandals appear to be operating are alarming, as are the graffiti which include glorification of anti-Indian terrorists," the Indian High Commission in Canberra said in a statement.

"These incidents are clear attempts to sow hatred and division among the peaceful multi-faith and multi-cultural Indian-Australian community," it added.

The High Commission highlighted that "pro-Khalistan elements are stepping up their activities in Australia, actively aided and abetted by members of proscribed terrorist organisations such as the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and other inimical agencies from outside Australia".

"It is hoped that not only will the perpetrators be brought to justice but suitable action will also be taken to prevent further attempts," the High Commission said.

The High Commission further said that its concerns about the so-called referendum in Melbourne and Sydney, announced by the proscribed organisation, 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 High Commission said.

(With inputs from PTI)