New York: In a shocking incident a Hindu priest was attacked near a temple in Floral Park, New York. The priest, Swami Harish Chander Puri, said that on Thursday, he was thrashed by a man coming from behind. Swami was wearing his religious garb when he was attacked by a middle aged man.
Reports say that the priest was badly bruised in the attack and was rushed to the hospital. He was wounded n bruised all over his body including his face. The priest is reported to have said that he is in pain after the attack.
People who were there is learned to have said that the attacker shouted that it was his country when he attacked the Hindu priest.
The police have already arrested a 52 year old man, Sergio Gouveia in connection with the attack and charged with assault and carrying a weapon. The police are still asserting if the attack was a hate crime.
Hate crimes are common in the United States where people are targeted for the color of their skin. The Hindu community in the US is one of the most peaceful and the crime rate are lower among them when compared to other communities. The community is also known to be better off and are admired and appreciated by the leadership and the people of the country.
This incident comes as a shock to the Hindu community and fears of their safety is high on everyone’s minds.
