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A teenager's gun jammed during an alleged mass shooting attempt at an Illinois Hindu temple. US lawmakers said the incident underscored rising religious and racial hatred.
Washington,Oct 16, 2026 00:18 IST
US lawmakers have condemned an attempted mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois, calling it a stark reminder of the religious and racial hatred faced by different communities, news agency Press Trust of India reported.
A 19-year-old was arrested in Palatine, near Chicago, for allegedly planning a mass shooting at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Aurora, Illinois, on Sunday. The attack failed because the teenager's gun jammed and could not fire. Lawmakers said no American should have to fear for their safety while practising their faith.
Congressman Jamie Raskin said 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."
According to PTI, Illinois Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi was at the temple on Sunday when the planned shooting failed.
Congressman Rich McCormick said: "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."
California Congressman Ro Khanna said: "As a Hindu American, I am angered by the attempted mass shooting at a Temple by a white supremacist. The shooter's evil is only surpassed by his ignorance. Hinduism teaches non-violence."
Congressman Ami Bera said he was horrified to learn that Krishnamoorthi and his family were worshipping when a white supremacist attempted a mass shooting targeting Indian Americans.
"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.
Congressman Shri Thanedar expressed shock over the attempted shooting targeting Krishnamoorthi and his family while they were worshipping. He called on Congress to "fight the horrifying rise in anti-Hindu attacks", adding that everyone should be able to practise their faith without fear.
Congresswoman Haley Stevens said: "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, who recently visited India, added: "I'm 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."
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said: "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."
"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," Jayapal said, according to PTI.
Congressman Nick LaLota condemned the "alleged plot" to target Hindu Americans during a religious gathering in Illinois. He said no American should fear for their life because of their faith, race or ancestry.
"Religious liberty is a cornerstone of our nation, and defending it is among our government's most solemn responsibilities," LaLota said.
The lawmakers condemned the failed attack and called for stronger efforts to counter religious and racial hatred, stressing that people must be able to worship without fearing violence.
With PTI Inputs
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