Washington, Oct 19 (SocialNews.XYZ) The chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee and a senior Democratic senator were among the latest members of Congress to condemn an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois, bringing the number who have spoken out to more than 60, according to a tally of public posts on X.
“The alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois is deeply disturbing. No American should ever have to fear for their life while practising their faith,” Republican Congressman Andrew Garbarino of New York wrote.
“As Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, protecting our houses of worship from threats of violence is a priority of mine,” he said, adding that “programs like the Nonprofit Security Grant Program are so important, providing critical resources to help keep religious institutions and their congregations safe.”
“I stand with the Hindu-American community,” Garbarino said.
Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, a Democrat, wrote the same day: “This display of white supremacy and anti-Indian hatred is vile and dangerous, and it has no place in our country.”
“No American should ever have to fear for their life because of their faith or identity,” Warner said.
Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland wrote: “Hate against our South Asian communities is on the rise; last Sunday’s planned attack was an example of this horrifying truth.”
“I am grateful that worshipers at the Balaji Temple in Illinois weren’t harmed. Everyone, regardless of party, must call out & condemn this hatred,” he said.
Others posting statements included Representatives Mike Levin, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Jan Schakowsky, Jim McGovern, John Delaney, Richard Neal and Julie Johnson.
No Republican senator was found to have posted publicly on the plot in IANS searches of their X accounts since October 12.
Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, a Republican, posted on October 17 about celebrating Diwali with “Bismarck’s Indian community”, recognising “the many contributions the Indian community makes to our state.” The post did not mention the Aurora plot. It has been viewed nearly 230,000 times.
The accused, Alexandros Paporakis, 19, of Palatine, faces state charges of making a terrorist threat, a Class X felony, and unlawful possession of a short-barrelled rifle. A Cook County judge ordered him detained without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 30 in Rolling Meadows, the Chicago Sun-Times and Fox 32 Chicago reported.
Palatine police said they were working with the FBI and reviewing whether additional charges may be warranted, Fox 32 reported. No federal charges have been filed.
Source: IANS
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