Workers who helped build the largest modern Hindu temple outside India in Robbinsville, New Jersey, have alleged abuse, visa fraud and medical neglect, claiming that at least two died from silicosis caused by inhaling silica dust while carving stone. The temple, Baps Swaminarayan Akshardham, opened in 2023 after construction between 2015 and 2023.
According to court documents and labour advocates, workers Ramesh Meena and Devi Lal died from the incurable lung disease silicosis. Lal died while awaiting a lung transplant. Other workers have been diagnosed with tuberculosis and chronic bronchitis. Workers spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing retaliation.
Two hundred Dalit workers from Rajasthan, India, were employed. They allege working 90-hour weeks for as low as $1.20 an hour, having passports confiscated, and being unable to contact families for long periods. One worker said he saw his children grow up only via phone, and his roommate died by suicide after returning to India.
Workers also claim inadequate personal protective equipment, such as surgical or cloth masks, despite OSHA requiring N95 masks for silica dust exposure. Some developed silicosis after being cleared medically. The temple denies the allegations, citing a ministerial exception under US law that protects religious institutions from certain employment claims.
