“We Will Not Accept”: India, Australia Vow Strict Action Against Temple Vandalism

DME Team
DME Team
Strict Action Against Temple Vandalism
PM and the Australian Prime Minister, Mr. Anthony Albanese at the Joint Press Statements at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on March 10, 2023.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently held discussions aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties between their countries in various areas, including renewable energy, trade, and defense. During the talks, PM Modi raised the issue of the recent incidents of vandalism targeting temples in Australia.

PM Modi highlighted that he and PM Albanese had previously discussed the matter, expressing concerns about the attacks on temples and the activities of separatist groups. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the friendly and warm relationship between India and Australia, emphasizing that actions or thoughts harming this bond would not be accepted.

PM Albanese assured PM Modi of taking strict action against those responsible for the vandalism. The Australian Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to addressing such incidents in the future as well. This assurance from the Australian side aims to address the concerns raised by PM Modi regarding the attacks on Hindu temples.

In recent months, several Hindu temples in Australia have faced acts of vandalism. In March, the Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple in Brisbane was attacked by pro-Khalistan supporters. Before that, the Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs was vandalized with anti-Hindu graffiti, and the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Mill Park was smeared with anti-India and anti-Hindu slogans.

The discussions between the two Prime Ministers were held in a cordial atmosphere, and the leaders expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors. PM Modi’s visit to Australia included a ceremonial guard of honor at the Admiralty House in Sydney, which was a symbol of the warm reception extended to him.

The talks between PM Modi and PM Albanese underline the significance of the India-Australia relationship and their joint efforts to enhance collaboration in renewable energy, trade, and defense. The assurance from the Australian Prime Minister regarding strict action against those involved in temple vandalism demonstrates a shared commitment to safeguarding religious and cultural diversity and promoting harmonious coexistence between communities.

PM Modi’s address to the Indian community in Sydney, which was attended by PM Albanese, further emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections and the role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening ties between the two nations. The visit and discussions between the leaders have laid a foundation for continued cooperation and progress in the India-Australia relationship.

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