US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi who was at the temple targeted for mass shooting joins up with over 100 US Lawmakers Urging FBI to Probe the foiled attack
More than 100 US lawmakers have urged the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate an alleged attempted mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois, as a potential federal hate crime, raising concerns over growing anti-Indian, anti-Hindu and anti-South Asian hostility in the United States.
Led by Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, 105 members of Congress sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel on October 20, seeking a comprehensive investigation into the alleged plot targeting the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Hindu Temple in Aurora, near Chicago. The signatories include four senators and several Indian-American members of the House of Representatives.
Suspect Allegedly Planned Mass Shooting
The case concerns 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis, who was arrested on October 11 after authorities received information about an alleged plan to attack the temple.
According to prosecutors, the suspect allegedly arrived at the temple while worshippers were gathering for Navaratri celebrations. His rifle reportedly malfunctioned, prompting him to leave the premises without carrying out the planned attack.
Investigators allege that Paporakis subsequently communicated his intentions to a co-worker, who alerted authorities. Police later arrested him and recovered a rifle, ammunition, tactical equipment and materials associated with white supremacist ideology during searches connected to the investigation.
Prosecutors have also cited an eight-page manifesto containing racist statements and references to violence against non-white people. The allegations have intensified calls for investigators to examine whether racial or religious hatred motivated the suspected plot. The suspect has been charged with making a terrorist threat and unlawful possession of a firearm, according to reports. Source: Associated Press
Lawmakers Demand Answers From FBI
In their letter, the lawmakers urged the FBI to give explicit attention to possible federal hate-crime violations and coordinate with relevant federal authorities.
They also asked the bureau to clarify whether investigators were examining potential racial, ethnic and religious bias, as well as whether online platforms or other individuals may have played a role in facilitating the alleged attack.
The lawmakers sought information about the FBI’s efforts to identify credible online threats against Indian Americans, Hindu Americans, Sikhs and other communities. They also raised questions about how federal authorities distinguish constitutionally protected speech from credible threats and conduct that warrant investigation.
The letter further called for stronger information-sharing arrangements between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and improved security support for vulnerable places of worship.
“No one should fear being targeted because of their ancestry, appearance, or faith,” the lawmakers said in their appeal, stressing that religious institutions must remain safe spaces for worshippers.
Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s Family Was at the Temple
The incident has particular significance for Krishnamoorthi, whose family has worshipped at the Aurora temple for decades. The congressman and his family were reportedly inside the temple when the alleged attack attempt occurred.
Krishnamoorthi has called for a thorough federal investigation, warning that the alleged plot underscores the dangers posed by white supremacist ideology and hostility directed at Indian-American communities.
Community leaders have also expressed concern that hateful rhetoric on social media can contribute to real-world intimidation and violence. They have urged political leaders, technology companies and law enforcement agencies to take credible threats seriously while protecting the rights of all communities.
Rising Concerns Over Anti India Hate
The lawmakers’ appeal comes amid growing concern about online hostility targeting Indians in the United States.
According to figures cited in their letter, more than 542,000 hateful posts appeared on X between January 2025 and June 2026. The lawmakers also cited survey findings indicating that many Indian Americans had encountered racist online content or experienced racial slurs.
Community advocates say the alleged temple plot highlights the need for stronger prevention measures, greater awareness of hate-motivated threats and improved protection for religious institutions.
The incident has also renewed discussions about the security of Hindu temples and other minority places of worship, particularly during major religious festivals that attract large congregations.
Investigation and Community Safety Remain Priorities
The lawmakers have requested a response from the FBI by October 29, 2026, addressing questions about the investigation, online threats, inter-agency coordination and resources available to protect affected communities.
The appeal does not establish that a federal hate crime has been proven. Rather, it seeks to ensure that investigators fully examine the available evidence and pursue any applicable offences.
As the investigation continues, community leaders are calling for vigilance, cooperation with law enforcement and a united response to religious intolerance and racial hatred which seems to have swept across the United States at the moment.
