News Desk: India has expressed serious concern over an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois, United States, describing the reported motive as anti-Hindu and racist. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has called for a thorough investigation and stronger measures to protect the Indian community in the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 15, the MEA said it was deeply concerned by reports of an alleged plan to target a Hindu temple in the Aurora area of Illinois. The ministry said the reported anti-Hindu and racist nature of the alleged plot, including references to violence against people of Indian origin, was particularly disturbing.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had taken note of the action taken by US law enforcement authorities, including the arrest and detention of the suspect and the charges brought against him.
The Indian government stressed that the incident had added to growing concerns about racist hostility and anti-India hate in the United States. It called for greater vigilance and a zero-tolerance approach towards violence motivated by hatred.
The ministry also urged US authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly, ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and take all necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The alleged plot has raised concerns about the safety of Hindu religious institutions and members of the Indian-origin community in the United States. Places of worship serve as important centres for religious activities, cultural gatherings and community events, making their security a significant concern for worshippers.
India's statement underlined the importance of protecting people from violence and discrimination on the basis of religion or ethnic origin. The government also emphasised the need for decisive action against hate-motivated crimes to ensure that members of the Indian community can live and practise their faith without fear.
The development comes amid wider concerns about hate crimes and the security of minority communities in different parts of the world. However, the allegations in this case will need to be established through the investigation and legal proceedings.
US law enforcement authorities have reportedly taken action against the suspect, but further details about the alleged plan, the evidence gathered and the precise circumstances surrounding the incident were not provided in the Indian ministry's statement.
India has urged the US authorities to ensure accountability and strengthen preventive measures so that religious institutions and members of the Indian diaspora remain safe.
The case is likely to draw further attention to the need for cooperation between authorities and communities in addressing threats motivated by religious hatred and racial prejudice.
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