The recent vandalism of Hindu temples in Victoria, Australia has been condemned by the Leader of the Opposition, John Pesutto, who is also the Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs. The temples, located in Mill Park and Carrum Downs, were defaced with anti-India graffiti, including slogans such as “Hindustan Murdabad” (death with Hindustan), “Modi Hitler” and “Sant Bhindranwale Martyr”.
Pesutto expressed his sadness over the incidents and emphasised the importance of maintaining a cohesive and peaceful society in Victoria. He said, “Victoria is, on the whole, a harmonious society, and the vast majority of Victorians agree that our multicultural society is an asset to Victoria.” He also urged all Victorians to respect each other’s cultures and religions and to stand together against hateful acts of vandalism.
Victoria is a diverse state, with a population made up of people from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds. Pesutto said that the state is proud of its reputation for harnessing multiculturalism’s many benefits to strengthen its community. He added, “We must not let the actions of a few individuals divide us and let the actions of a few individuals tarnish our reputation as a harmonious society.”
In addition to Pesutto’s statement, various Hindu and Sikh organisations have also condemned the vandalism. They have called for a thorough investigation by the Victoria Police and for strict action to be taken against the perpetrators.
The Hindu Council Australia, Victoria Chapter, stated that the vandalism “violates the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2001” and that it is “an attack on the entire community.” They also extended their support to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Mill Park and praised the temple for their contributions to the community.
The incident comes at a time when the temple is celebrating its 100th year of the spiritual guru HH Pramukh Swami Maharaja. This vandalism, however, is not only an attack on the temple and the Hindu community but also on the principles of humanism and mutual understanding that the society stands for.
Victoria, Australia’s multicultural society is an asset, and all Victorians must respect each other, said John Pesutto, Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs. He expressed his sadness over the recent vandalism of two Hindu temples in Mill Park and Carrum Downs.
John Pesutto // Photo source: Twitter @JohnPesutto
“We must not let the actions of a few individuals divide us and let the actions of a few individuals tarnish our reputation as a harmonious society”
— John Pesutto, Leader of Opposition
“Victoria is, on the whole, a harmonious society, and the vast majority of Victorians agree that our multicultural society is an asset to Victoria,” said Pesutto. “All Victorians must respect each other, knowing fully well that we are fortunate to live in a State where everyone has the right to express their culture, religion and heritage without fear or prejudice.”
Pesutto emphasised the importance of maintaining a cohesive and peaceful society and said that it is up to all of us to work together to ensure that we maintain a cohesive and peaceful society. He said, “We must accept, respect, celebrate and maintain our different cultures while promoting social cohesion and mutual understanding.”
Victoria has a diverse population and is home to people from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds. Pesutto said that the state is proud of its reputation for harnessing multiculturalism’s many benefits to strengthen its community. He added, “We must not let the actions of a few individuals divide us and let the actions of a few individuals tarnish our reputation as a harmonious society.”
Pesutto urged all Victorians to stand together and condemn the vandalism of the Hindu temples. He said, “We must come together as a community and show that we will not tolerate such hateful acts. We must send a clear message that this kind of behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
In addition to the two vandalised Hindu temples, an ISKCON temple located in Clayton, Victoria was also targeted by vandals. The temple’s walls were defaced with graffiti and statues of deities were damaged. The temple’s management has expressed their disappointment and shock at the incident and have called for swift action to be taken against the perpetrators.
The ISKCON temple in Clayton is a popular place of worship for the local Indian community, and the incident has caused great distress among devotees. The temple’s management has stated that they will not let this act of vandalism deter them from continuing to serve the community and promote harmony and understanding among people of different cultures and religions.
Various community leaders and organisations have also spoken out against the vandalism of the ISKCON temple. They have condemned the act and have called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. They have emphasised the importance of maintaining a peaceful and harmonious society and have urged all members of the community to come together in solidarity to condemn such hateful acts.
In conclusion, the recent vandalism of multiple Hindu and ISKCON temples in Victoria has been met with widespread condemnation from community leaders, organisations, and members of the public. These incidents are not only an attack on the temples and the communities they serve, but also on the principles of mutual understanding and respect that form the foundation of a harmonious society. It is vital that swift action is taken against the perpetrators, and that the community comes together in solidarity to promote peace, respect, and understanding among people of all cultures and religions.
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The recent #vandalism of Hindu temples in Victoria condemned by the Leader of Opposition, @JohnPesutto, who is also Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs. Temples in Mill Park & Carrum Downs were defaced with anti-India graffiti. #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/6KQNZmUGjq
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