US Congress Members Demand Justice Department Briefing on Attacks Targeting Hindu Temples

Five members of the US Congress who are of Indian descent have called for a briefing from the Justice Department regarding a series of attacks on Hindu temples across the nation. The temples have been targeted with vandalism, some of which included pro-Khalistan and anti-India graffiti. The Congress members expressed their concern in a joint letter, stating, “Attacks at mandirs from New York to California have contributed to increased collective anxiety among Hindu Americans.” The letter highlighted the lack of leads on suspects and the resulting fear and intimidation within affected communities. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi is leading this initiative, supported by Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal, Ami Bera, and Shri Thanedar.

The members emphasized the need for law enforcement coordination and federal oversight to ensure equal protection under the law. They raised questions about the frequency and timing of these incidents, suggesting a potential connection and underlying intent. They stressed the impact of hate crimes on marginalized communities and called for collaborative efforts to combat such acts targeting religious, ethnic, racial, and cultural minorities. The Congress members requested clarity on the Department’s strategy concerning hate crimes against Hindus in the US.

Recent incidents include the defacement of a Hindu temple in Hayward, California, with pro-Khalistan graffiti in January, following a similar incident in Newark, also in California. The Hindu American Foundation noted that these attacks appear to be on the rise, with at least two incidents occurring in the past few weeks. Pro-Khalistani activists were implicated in incidents of arson and vandalism at the Indian consulate in San Francisco in 2023.

Despite assurances from the Biden administration to address these acts of hate, including promises of punishment for those responsible, no arrests have been made thus far. The Congress members’ call for a briefing reflects their commitment to addressing these alarming trends and ensuring the safety and security of Hindu American communities.