Daijiworld Media Network – Canberra
Canberra, Jul 24: In a deeply distressing incident, the Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Melbourne’s Boronia suburb was defaced with racist graffiti on July 21, leaving the Indian community in shock and dismay. The hateful message, “Go Home Brown C**t,” was spray-painted on the temple wall, along with similar slurs found on two Asian-run restaurants in the vicinity, as reported by The Australia Today.
The vile act has been strongly condemned by community leaders and the Australian government alike. Makrand Bhagwat, President of the Hindu Council of Australia, expressed his heartbreak over the desecration. “Seeing it vandalised with hateful words was heartbreaking for volunteers and worshippers alike,” he said in an official statement.
Describing the temple as a hub for Melbourne’s Indian diaspora, Bhagwat noted that it is a place where daily prayers, cultural events, and community meals are held. “Our temple is meant to be a sanctuary of peace, devotion, and unity. It’s where we celebrate our faith and heritage,” he added.
The incident has drawn strong condemnation from Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan, who termed the act as “hateful, racist and deeply disturbing.” In a public statement, she said, “This wasn’t just vandalism—it was a deliberate act of hate meant to intimidate and isolate. There is absolutely no place for such behaviour in Victoria.”
Premier Allan further confirmed that Victoria’s Minister for Multicultural Affairs will soon visit the temple to personally express the government’s solidarity and hear the concerns of the affected community. “Your contribution, your culture, and your faith are deeply valued as we build a future together in this state,” she assured the Hindu community.
Meanwhile, the Victoria Police have launched an investigation into four linked incidents of racist graffiti reported in the Boronia and Bayswater areas. Authorities confirmed that the vandalism occurred overnight on July 21 and was first spotted at a healing centre on Mountain Highway, followed by the Hindu temple on Wadhurst Drive around 9:30 am, and then two restaurants on Boronia Road.
Police have urged anyone with information to come forward as efforts continue to identify the perpetrators and ensure the community's safety.
The Indian diaspora in Australia, which has significantly contributed to the nation’s multicultural fabric, continues to call for stronger action and vigilance against racially motivated hate crimes.