India would raise the issue of vandalism of Hindu temples by pro-Khalistan supporters during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the country, Indian Ambassador to Australia Manpreet Vohra said on Monday.
"We are seeing great responsiveness from the Australian authorities to our concerns. We are confident that they will go after those who violate the law and indulge in these hate crimes. I am quite confident that going forward, we will see a better situation," the Indian envoy said.
Temples of the Hindu faith have witnessed at least four attacks by suspected radical elements since the beginning of 2023:
In January, two Hindu temples in Melbourne and another in Carrum Downs were painted with anti-India Graffiti, with slogans like "Hindustan Murdabad" (death to India) and "Modi Hitler" featuring prominently on their walls.
In March, another attack on a Hindu temple in Brisbane, Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple was reported.
India has repeatedly condemned the defacing of Hindu temples Down Under, blaming 'Khalistan' supporters for carrying out such acts of vandalism.
New Delhi has even urged the Australian authorities to undertake strict action against all those who are working against Indian interests in Australia.
This isn't the first time the issue would come up for discussion between the top leadership of the two nations.
In March, Modi had raised the matter with Albanese. And according to the Indian PM, he got a commitment from the Australian PM that his government would take stern action against people involved in conducting attacks against Indian interests there.
"I have seen reports of attacks on temples in Australia. I have conveyed this to PM Albanese and he has assured me that the safety and well-being of the Indian community in Australia is a priority for them," Modi said during his meeting with Albanese in March.
During his three-day visit to Australia from May 22-24, Modi and Australian Prime Minister Albanese are set to hold bilateral talks on a host of issues, including trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.
Among other topics that would be discussed between the two leaders are renewable energy, and efforts to strengthen their defense partnership.