OMM Newsroom
India said on Thursday it was “deeply concerned” about an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in the US state of Illinois.
A 19-year-old man from Palatine, Illinois, was arrested after authorities investigated threats involving a possible attack on a Hindu temple, CBS News reported. Alexandros Paporakis was arrested outside his home on Sunday evening after authorities received a tip.
“We are deeply concerned by reports of an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting targeting a Hindu temple in the Aurora area of Illinois,” India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
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.”
New Delhi said the incident added to “growing concerns over racist hostility and anti-India hate in the US.” It said it had taken note of actions by US law enforcement, including the suspect’s arrest and detention and the charges brought against him.
“There is a need for greater vigilance, zero tolerance for hate-motivated violence, and decisive action to ensure the safety and security of the Indian community,” the ministry said.
