#CoHNA #Hindu Community #BAPS Temple

DOJ Closes Its Investigation of BAPS Temple in New Jersey

In a notable development for the Hindu community in America, the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) has welcomed the U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) decision to terminate its investigation into the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey. This situation started amidst accusations of caste discrimination and exploitation of workers at the temple, charges that have not only been broadly circulated but were also unsubstantiated.

Background of the Investigation

The BAPS temple is the largest Hindu temple in the Western world and has recently faced intense scrutiny and criticism. In 2021, it became a focal point of allegations that portrayed Hindus and their institutions as oppressive. These claims emerged in a broader context of anti-Hindu sentiment, exacerbated by media portrayals that lacked sufficient evidence. For instance, articles in major newspapers, including the New York Times, circulated damaging narratives while investigatory actions were still underway.

The media's role in amplifying these allegations without clear validation has drawn criticism from various fronts. In particular, sensationalized headlines, like those from the Trentonian labeling the temple as