Melbourne: The Swaminarayan Temple in Australia was defaced with hate slurs on July 21, reported local media. according to a report by The Australia Today, the hate message, "Go Home, Brown..." was painted in red graffiti. The temple is located on Wadhurst Drive in Boronia.
A similar message appeared on two nearby Asian‑run restaurants. President of the Hindu Council of Australia, Victoria chapter, Makrand Bhagwat, expressed shock over the incident. "Our temple is meant to be a sanctuary of peace, devotion and unity," he said, as quoted The Australia Today.
Bhagwat said that the temple hosts daily prayers and cultural events. Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan is yet to condemn the incident publicly. However, her office said a private letter to the temple management, condemning the incident.
"What happened last week was hateful, racist and deeply disturbing. It wasn't just vandalism - it was a deliberate act of hate, designed to intimidate, isolate and spread fear," Allan said in the letter accessed by The Australian Today.
"It was an attack on your right to feel safe and to belong, and on the values that bind us together. There's no place for it anywhere in Victoria. And it must be called out for what it is," the letter further read.
Allan offered unwavering support to the temple. "As Premier, I want you to know how much your contribution, your culture, and your faith mean to me, and to the future we’re building together in this state. You carry with you the full support of our government. We stand beside you, with respect and unwavering support,” she said in the letter.
An investigation has been launched into the matter.
