Hindu temple shooting plot in Aurora, Illinois draws condemnation from US lawmakers

US lawmakers expressed anger after an attempted mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois. Several members of Congress said the case showed how faith groups face hate and threats. They stressed that people should feel safe while worshipping. The incident involved a planned attack at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Aurora, Illinois.

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Police arrested a 19-year-old in Palatine, near Chicago, over the alleged plan. The suspect was accused of preparing to shoot people at the temple on Sunday. The attempt did not go ahead as intended. Authorities said the gun jammed and could not fire.

Hindu temple Illinois attack draws condemnation from US lawmakers

Congressman Jamie Raskin addressed the case in a post on X. "Americans are outraged by this planned mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois. We must stand together-and strong-against white supremacist hate and violence targeted at temples, synagogues, churches and mosques,\" Raskin wrote.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois was at the Aurora temple on Sunday when the plan failed. Other lawmakers referred to the alleged target as worshippers and Indian Americans. The statements described the event as an attack aimed at people during prayer. Several lawmakers called it an assault on basic safety.

Hindu temple Illinois case prompts calls to tackle hate violence

Congressman Rich McCormick condemned the alleged plot and linked it to bias. \"The plot to massacre innocent Americans at a Hindu temple is unequivocally wrong. Violence toward anyone based on a religion, political orientation, or race is evil,\" McCormick said.

Congressman Ro Khanna, a California lawmaker, said the case angered Hindu Americans. \"As a Hindu American, I am angered by the attempted mass shooting at a Temple by a white supremacist. The shooters evil is only surpassed by his ignorance. Hinduism teaches non-violence,\" Khanna said.

Congressman Ami Bera said the report left Bera horrified. Bera said Krishnamoorthi and family were worshipping when the attempted shooting unfolded. \"This incident is a stark reminder of the threats facing Hindu communities and other communities targeted by religious and racial hatred. Every American has the right to worship in peace. Congress must do more to combat hate-fueled violence and protect our communities from these threats,\" Bera said.

Hindu temple Illinois incident highlights safety at houses of worship

Congressman Shri Thanedar said the reported attempt targeted Krishnamoorthi and family during worship. Thanedar urged Congress to respond to what Thanedar called a rise in anti-Hindu attacks. Thanedar added that people should be able to follow faith without fear. The comments tied the incident to wider concern about threats at places of worship.

Congresswoman Haley Stevens also spoke about violence at religious sites. \"The rising trend of hate-filled violence, especially at Houses of Worship, must stop. No American should have to fear for their safety when practicing their faith,\" Stevens said. Stevens added, \"Im proud to represent one of the largest Indian American districts in Congress-they contribute so much to our community and our country. They deserve better,\" and noted a recent visit to India.

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal thanked police for stopping the alleged plan and said worshippers were safe. \"I am incredibly grateful that local law enforcement thwarted this attempted mass shooting by a white supremacist and that the worshipers at this temple are safe,\" Jayapal said. Jayapal added, \"Attacks on South Asians have been on the rise, online and by leaders in our own government. This hate, racism, and violence are absolutely unacceptable, are traumatising our communities, and must end.\"

Congressman Nick LaLota criticised the reported plan and said religious freedom needs protection. LaLota said no one should fear death due to faith, race, or ancestry. \"Religious liberty is a cornerstone of our nation, and defending it is among our governments most solemn responsibilities,\" LaLota said. Lawmakers across parties linked the case to efforts against hate-driven violence.

With inputs from PTI