‘Matter of deep concern’: India seeks safety for nationals after Hindu temple attack plot in US
New Delhi: India on Friday urged the United States to ensure the safety of Indian nationals after authorities foiled an alleged mass-shooting plot at a Hindu temple in Illinois.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the alleged plan as a serious concern. He acknowledged the action taken by American law enforcement agencies and sought measures to protect the Indian community. “We have seen reports about an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting targeting a Hindu temple in Illinois. This is a matter of deep concern for us,” Jaiswal said.
Colleagues alert police
Police arrested Alexandros Paporakis, 19, in Palatine, a Chicago suburb, on October 11. His co-workers had alerted authorities to disturbing text messages. Prosecutors alleged that he spent around two months focusing on the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, about 65 km west of downtown Chicago.
They also alleged that he attempted an attack on October 11, but his rifle malfunctioned when he tried to shoot a man from a car. According to prosecutors, Paporakis told colleagues that he “couldn’t wait to kill Indian people” and described Sunday as the “special day”.
Weapons recovered during search
Investigators recovered a document attributed to Paporakis that allegedly contained white supremacist views and references to violence against people of Indian origin. Court records cited by the Chicago Sun-Times said he described himself as “a sociopathic white supremacist Neo Nazi filled with hatred, fantasising about mass murder nearly every day”.
Police recovered a rifle, loaded magazines, hundreds of rounds of ammunition and a tactical vest containing body armour from his residence. They also found a patch with imagery associated with white supremacist extremism. Authorities said the investigation so far suggested that he acted alone. The probe remains open.
India seeks firm action
On Thursday, the MEA had raised concerns about the alleged plot’s anti-Hindu and racist nature. “We expect US authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter, bring those responsible to justice, and take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents.”
Jaiswal said the incident added to concerns over racist hostility and anti-India hate in the US. Paporakis faces charges of making a terrorist threat, a Class X felony, and illegal possession of weapons. A court ordered him to remain in custody. His next hearing is scheduled for October 30.