IANS-
The US Justice Department has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding outreach to Hindu Americans in response to rising Hinduphobia and hate crimes against the community.
Raja Krishnamoorthi, an Indian American House Representative, reported that the Justice Department conveyed this commitment during a briefing last week. Four other Indian American lawmakers, collectively known as the ‘Samosa Caucus’ – Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal, and Shri Thanedar – also attended.
The meeting was prompted by increasing incidents of temple vandalism across the country.
Krishnamoorthi stated, “Last week’s meeting was a crucial first step in addressing Hinduphobia threats as hate crimes increase nationwide. American Hindus and their places of worship face harassment, vandalism, and serious dangers.”
He added, “While the Department of Justice has committed to expanding outreach to the Hindu American community, significant challenges remain in protecting Hindus and all American communities from hate crimes.”
Recent incidents include the January vandalism of the Sherawali Temple in Hayward, California, following a similar event at the Swaminarayan Temple in Newark, New Jersey, a month before. Both cases involved anti-India graffiti and pro-Khalistan slogans.
The lawmakers also expressed concern regarding the spread of misinformation about Hindus on social media platforms.
In a March letter to the Justice Department, the five lawmakers wrote, “We have observed an alarming increase in vandalism at houses of worship nationwide, including Hindu mandirs (temples).” They requested a briefing on the status of investigations into these crimes for a better understanding of the law enforcement coordination between local agencies, the FBI, and the Civil Rights Division.
