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The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the United States has welcomed the decision by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and the US Attorney’s Office for New Jersey to close their investigation of BAPS and the creation of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham.In its statement issued on Thursday, BAPS said that the temple “a place of peace, service and devotion” was built through the dedication and volunteer work of thousands of devotees. The organization highlighted that adversity should be met with cooperation, humility and a commitment to truth, reflecting the virtue of “Satyameva Jayate (truth will always prevail)”.The statement added that the temple stands as a symbol of the Hindu community’s contributions to American society. The organization invited all to visit Akshardham to experience its art, traditions, devotion and spirit of service.The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) praised the closure of the investigation. In a post on X, HAF said, “The Department of Justice & US Attorney’s Office of New Jersey have CLOSED their investigation of the largest Hindu temple in this country Akshardham.” It described the 2021 raid as being “prompted by horrific false allegations, including that of ‘caste discrimination,’” which had “shocked the Hindu American community.” HAF added that while the decision is welcome, the Hindu community remains outraged that BAPS and Hindu Americans had to endure four years of vilification and anti-Hindu sentiment. The organization expressed support for BAPS’ public affairs office and praised their statement as rooted in the highest values of Hindu dharma.
Background: 2021 investigation and lawsuit
The investigation followed a 2021 FBI raid prompted by a lawsuit alleging that workers from marginalized communities in India were brought to the US, forced to work long hours for minimal pay and lived under strict surveillance, news agency Associated Press reported. The lawsuit accused BAPS leaders, including CEO Kanu Patel of human trafficking and wage law violations.According to the lawsuit, more than 200 workers many Dalits and non-English speakers were coerced into signing employment agreements in India. They traveled to the US under R-1 visas, which are intended for those who minister or work in religious vocations or occupations.Upon arrival, their passports were reportedly confiscated, and they were forced to work at the temple from 6.30 am to 7.30 pm, with few days off, for roughly $450 per month, of which only $50 was paid in cash and the remainder deposited into accounts in India.The workers allegedly lived in a fenced compound under constant camera surveillance and were warned that leaving could result in police arrest because they did not have their passports. The lawsuit names Patel and several other supervisors and seeks unpaid wages along with unspecified compensatory and punitive damages.Patel had dismissed the claim at the time. He told The New York Times, “I respectfully disagree with the wage claim.”
