The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the US has welcomed the decision by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the US Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey to close their investigation into BAPS and the construction of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham.
In an official statement, the organization said the decision reinforces what it has maintained from the start: that the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, which is located in Robbinsville, New Jersey, was built as a ‘place of peace, service, and devotion’ through the selfless volunteer efforts of devotees.
The Hindu community, a relatively newer faith tradition in the US, views the completion of the Aksharsham campus as a powerful symbol of its growing presence and contribution to American society. “The fact that our community came together to create such a landmark is a testament to the values that make America great,” the statement read.
BAPS emphasized that its teachings encourage responding to adversity and humility, cooperation and an unwavering commitment to truth, quoting the ancient Indian ideal of 'Satyamev Jayate,' meaning 'the truth shall always prevail.' The organization scredit the grace of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the blessings of the spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, for helping the fellowship emerge from this period with renewed strength and faith.
BAPS has extended an open invitation to the public to visit the Akshardham complex, which showcases intricate art, Indian traditions, and a spirit of service. “We pray for the continued well-being and betterment of all,” the statement concluded.
Vietnamese Buddhist monk Bhikkhu Pannakara offers water to his pet dog Aloka, a stray rescued from India, at the start of the 'Walk For Peace' pilgrimage in Dambulla, in northcentral Sri Lanka on April 22, 2026. A high-profile stray dog trotted at the head of a barefoot "peace walk" on April 22 by a group of 13 saffron-robed Buddhist monks led by Pannakara across Sri Lanka, braving searing tropical heat. The peace walk has amassed a large online following, with their Facebook page drawing more than three million followers. Getty Images
Vietnamese Buddhist monk Bhikkhu Pannakara (R) looks on during the start of the 'Walk For Peace' pilgrimage in Dambulla, in northcentral Sri Lanka on April 22, 2026. A high-profile stray dog trotted at the head of a barefoot "peace walk" on April 22 by a group of 13 saffron-robed Buddhist monks led by Pannakara across Sri Lanka, braving searing tropical heat. The peace walk has amassed a large online following, with their Facebook page drawing more than three million followers. Getty Images
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BAPS, Atlanta
BAPS, Atlanta