Jaishankar condemns temple vandalism in US, stresses against extremisms influence

PTC News Desk: The Swaminarayan Mandir in California suffered vandalism, displaying anti-India graffiti on its walls, prompting a response from India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar.

Expressing concern, Jaishankar emphasised the need to prevent extremist and separatist elements from gaining ground abroad. He confirmed the Indian Consulate’s engagement with US authorities, urging a thorough inquiry. The defacement, featuring anti-India slogans, sparked outrage and was condemned as a hate crime by the Hindu American Foundation, targeting temple-goers.

The Indian Consulate in San Francisco strongly condemned the act, emphasising its impact on the Indian community and demanding prompt action from US authorities. Additionally, Jaishankar addressed the case of Nikhil Gupta, detained in the Czech Republic for allegedly conspiring to kill a US-based Sikh separatist. He clarified that Gupta was provided consular access three times.

India's investigation into Gupta's alleged involvement followed a US extradition request, while the Czech government retained jurisdiction, dismissing Indian authority. Gupta's family sought the Indian government's intervention for a fair trial amid US extradition attempts, prompted by Czech officials' assertion of India's lack of jurisdiction in the case.