In a recent turn of events, the Swaminarayan Mandir in Newark, California, faced vandalism with anti-India and pro-Khalistani slogans graffitied on its exterior walls. Reacting to the incident, Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the need to deny space to extremists and separatists. He stated that such forces should not be given refuge in foreign lands and highlighted that the Indian Consulate had lodged complaints with the US government and police, triggering an ongoing inquiry.
The graffiti, which also mentioned the name of Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, prompted concerns about a potential hate crime, aiming to instill fear and trauma among temple-goers. The Hindu American Foundation expressed these concerns on social media.
The Indian Consulate in San Francisco strongly condemned the defacement, acknowledging its impact on the sentiments of the Indian community. The Consulate General issued a statement urging a swift investigation and prompt action against the vandals by US authorities.
In a related development, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar addressed the issue of consular assistance to Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national detained in the Czech Republic. Gupta faces charges of conspiring to kill a Sikh separatist on American soil. Jaishankar confirmed that Gupta had been provided consular access three times. The charges against Gupta, brought forth by the US, alleged his involvement in a foiled plot to assassinate US-based Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Meanwhile, a Czech government official stated that Indian judicial authorities have no jurisdiction in the Nikhil Gupta case, asserting that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the competent authorities of the Czech Republic.
Gupta’s family has approached the Supreme Court, seeking the Indian government’s intervention in the extradition process and ensuring a fair trial. Simultaneously, the United States has formally requested Gupta’s extradition from the Czech authorities, adding another layer of complexity to this evolving international case.
