According to the organization's statement, religious freedom and the right to worship without fear are included in the basic principles of American society. In such a situation, the alleged conspiracy to target a temple is worrying not only for the Hindu community but for all those who believe in religious freedom and peaceful co-existence. The organization has appealed to the Hindu communities to remain calm and maintain unity. Also, the temple management committees and families have been advised to stay in touch with the local police and law enforcement agencies and review the security arrangements. Emphasis has also been laid on immediately reporting any suspicious activity or threat to the authorities.
According to reports, a 19-year-old man was arrested in Palatine near Chicago. He is accused of planning the mass shooting at Sri Venkateswara Temple in Aurora. It is reported that during the incident his gun jammed and he could not fire. Thus the alleged attack attempt failed. However, the final determination of the allegations made in the case and the facts related to the investigation has to be done through the legal process.
American lawmakers also expressed concern and anger over the incident. MP Jamie Raskin said that people should unite against the alleged plan of mass shooting in the temple and oppose white supremacist thinking and violence. He also condemned the violence targeting temples as well as Jewish places of worship, churches and mosques. Congressman Rich McCormick called violence against a person based on religious identity, political opinion or race as wrong.
California MP Ro Khanna also expressed displeasure over the incident. He said Hindu religion teaches non-violence and targeting any religious community is unacceptable. MP Ami Bera expressed concern that Raja Krishnamurthy and his family were performing puja at the temple when the alleged conspiracy came to light. He said the incident highlights the danger that exists for other communities, including the Hindu community, facing religious and racial hatred. He expressed the need to take more steps for the security of religious places.
MP Shri Thanedar also appealed to the Congress to counter the attacks against Hindus. Haley Stevens said that incidents of hate-motivated violence at religious places should stop and no American should fear for their safety while practicing their religion. MP Pramila Jayapal, while praising the action of local police, expressed concern over the growing hatred and racism against South Asians. He said the hatred that unfolds online and in public life causes psychological trauma to communities.
Aurora Mayor John Lash also said after the event that the city's strength lies in its diversity. He stressed on the right of all citizens to be safe and practice their religion. Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh-America has also appealed to other religious and community organizations to stand with the Hindu community. The incident has once again raised the question of how to strengthen cooperation between communities and the administration to secure religious places and prevent hate-motivated violence.