VOI World/ desk
A Hindu temple in Boronia, an eastern suburb of Melbourne, was defaced with racist slurs painted in red, prompting a formal investigation by Victoria Police. The Shree Swaminarayan Temple, a key spiritual centre for the Indian diaspora, was targeted alongside two nearby Asian-owned restaurants bearing identical hateful messages.
Community leaders have condemned the vandalism as an affront to religious freedom and identity. Makrand Bhagwat, President of the Hindu Council of Australia (Victoria), described the act as an attack on their right to worship and feel safe. Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, privately sent a message condemning the incident as hateful and assuring temple officials of government support.
Police confirmed they are treating the case seriously and searching for the perpetrators. The incident mirrors a worrying uptick in racially motivated attacks in Melbourne. The Hindu community is calling for solidarity from interfaith groups, while authorities emphasize zero tolerance for hate‑based behaviour.
The defacement not only shocked local devotees but also underscored broader concerns about rising intolerance. Authorities have pledged to strengthen security measures at places of worship to prevent future incidents and maintain community cohesion.
