Multiple shots fired at ISKCON temple in US, India urges ‘prompt action’
In a disturbing turn of events, the ISKCON temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, came under fire during late-night hours across multiple days in June. Unknown attackers fired more than 20 bullets at the temple, shattering glass windows and damaging carved arches. The temple, a spiritual landmark known for its annual Holi Festival, is now at the center of an investigation.
The gunfire, although causing no injuries, has shaken the local Hindu community and drawn international concern. India has officially condemned the incident and asked U.S. authorities to act swiftly.
Devotees Inside as Bullets Struck the Temple
The Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple stands atop a hill in Spanish Fork. For over two decades, it has served as a spiritual haven for followers of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Every year, thousands visit to attend the Holi Festival of Colors, a joyful celebration of spring.
During the attacks, devotees were inside the temple. They heard the shots and later discovered damage to sacred architecture. Hand-carved sandstone features and stained-glass windows now show bullet holes. Temple members say they’ve never experienced anything like this in the past 25 years.
Temple president Vai Warden said, “This was not a random act. Someone fired those bullets while we were inside.” He believes the shooting was deliberate and motivated by hate.
Fear and Sadness Grip the Community
The attack has left many in the community afraid. Some have begun to skip prayer services. Others are calling for tighter security, including more surveillance cameras and regular police patrols.
Despite the fear, temple leaders remain focused on healing and unity. They recently held a prayer vigil, inviting people from various faiths to join in solidarity.
Local Authorities Begin Investigation
The Utah County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the temple faced gunfire on at least three different nights between June 26 and June 30. Officers collected bullet casings and continue to review nearby security footage.
Officials are treating the case as vandalism, though hate crime charges remain a possibility. The department has urged residents with any information to come forward. A reward has also been announced for tips leading to the arrest of those responsible.
Law enforcement promised to pursue the case seriously. But some members of the Hindu community feel the legal system needs to recognize and address rising anti-Hindu sentiment more directly.
India Demands Accountability
Reacting quickly, the Indian Consulate in San Francisco posted a strong statement on social media. “We have taken up the matter with U.S. authorities for prompt investigation and appropriate action,” the statement read. The consulate emphasized the need to protect religious spaces and ensure such incidents never repeat.
India’s government has voiced concern over previous attacks on Hindu temples in the U.S. In the past year alone, temples in California, New York, and Texas have faced acts of vandalism and threats. Indian officials see these events as part of a troubling trend.
Not an Isolated Case
Hindu organizations across the U.S. say the Utah attack highlights a wider issue. Many temples report increased threats, hate graffiti, and online harassment.
Anjali Patel, a spokesperson for the Coalition of Hindus of North America, said, “When a temple is attacked, it’s an attack on the entire community’s right to worship freely.” She urged lawmakers to improve protections for minority faiths.
Support has come from across communities. Local churches, synagogues, and civic groups have reached out to the ISKCON temple with messages of solidarity. Some locals even visited the site after the attack to show their support.
Standing Strong Despite Fear
In response to the violence, temple leaders have chosen to focus on resilience. They plan to continue hosting events, including Janmashtami, a major celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth.
“We won’t live in fear,” said Warden. “This temple stands for love, devotion, and acceptance. No bullets can break that.”
Volunteers have already begun repairing the damaged arches and cleaning the grounds. Community members say their faith remains unshaken, and their message is clear—hate has no place in their house of worship.
Conclusion
The ISKCON temple shooting in Utah has raised alarms about the safety of religious minorities in the U.S. While the investigation continues, the Hindu community hopes for justice and stronger measures to prevent such acts in the future. Through prayer, unity, and determination, the temple aims to heal and inspire once again.
