health
Workers carved the largest modern Hindu temple in the west. Now, some have incurable lung disease
Workers allege abuse, visa fraud and medical neglect during the New Jersey temple’s construction – and say two died from lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust
TL;DR
- Workers allege they labored for as low as $1.20 per hour for 90 hours a week during the construction of the Baps Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey.
- At least two workers are believed to have died from silicosis, a severe lung disease caused by silica dust inhalation, with others diagnosed with respiratory illnesses.
- Allegations include passport confiscation, restricted family contact, and inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as only surgical masks, during stone carving.
- The religious organization Baps denies the allegations, stating that workers were provided with housing, meals, medical care, and that safety was prioritized.
- A 2021 federal investigation into forced labor at the site led to the removal of 90 workers, though a subsequent criminal investigation by the Department of Justice closed without charges.
- A civil lawsuit against Baps by the workers is now set to resume, seeking back pay and compensation for alleged harm.