Why Did US Congressman Krishnamoorthi Visit a Hindu Temple Targeted by Burglars in California?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Congressman Krishnamoorthi condemns the burglary at the temple.
- The incident is part of a troubling trend of violence against Hindu temples in the US.
- The Indian government is actively engaging with US authorities on these matters.
- Krishnamoorthi pledges to advocate for the safety of places of worship.
- Community support is vital for recovery and resilience.
Washington, Sep 2 (NationPress) US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has strongly condemned a break-in at a Hindu temple in Santa Clara, California, calling for immediate action against those responsible. He visited the temple on Saturday to express his solidarity with the wider Hindu American community.
“I denounce in the most forceful terms the break-in and vandalism of the Bay Area Shiv Durga Temple in Santa Clara, California. The criminals behind this act must face justice without delay. We must unite in prayer and support to help the Shiv Durga Temple recover,” Krishnamoorthi stated.
On August 28, the temple was burglarized, with thieves stealing its donation box and various ornaments. This incident marks the second burglary at the temple, following a similar occurrence in January 2024.
The Democratic House representative from Illinois emphasized the alarming increase in attacks on Hindu temples throughout the United States, labeling them as “abhorrent acts of violence.”
In Greenwood, Indiana, a temple was vandalized in August with anti-India and anti-Hindu graffiti. Gunfire hit the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, in June, while a temple in Chino Hills, Southern California, was similarly defaced in March.
The Indian government has formally protested against these attacks on several occasions.
In March, Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh confirmed in Parliament that India is actively engaging with US authorities regarding such incidents.
“Every instance of attack and desecration of temples and places of worship in the US is promptly addressed with the US Government through diplomatic channels,” the MoS commented.
Krishnamoorthi has pledged to persist in his advocacy against such attacks.
“In America, everyone should have the right to pray in peace and safety — I will continue to advocate, show up, and provide support to uphold this sacred principle,” he assured.