US authorities vow zero tolerance for religious violence after an alleged shooting plot targeting a Hindu temple in Illinois was foiled. (Images: X)
New York: US authorities have pledged zero tolerance for threats against religious communities after a 19-year-old man was arrested over an alleged plan to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) officials said on Thursday that violence and intimidation targeting people exercising their constitutional rights would not be tolerated. The case has renewed concerns about anti-Hindu hatred and the safety of places of worship in the United States.
According to officials, Alexandros Paporakis, who allegedly identified himself as a white supremacist and neo-Nazi, planned to attack a Hindu temple near Chicago. The alleged attempt failed after his rifle malfunctioned, prompting him to leave the premises.Authorities said a co-worker subsequently alerted the police after Paporakis allegedly disclosed his actions and intention to try again.
Surveillance footage reportedly showed a red Acura RDX at the temple's parking area for approximately 13 minutes on Saturday. Investigators believe the suspect had been planning the attack for more than two years.
FBI Chicago acting head Lucas Rothar said authorities would not tolerate violence or threats motivated by hateful ideologies intended to silence people practising their religion. Palatine Police Chief William Nord said investigators had not identified any continuing public threat linked to the incident. However, he stressed the seriousness of the alleged plot. Police have withheld the identity of the targeted temple out of respect for the community.
Hindu and Indian-American organisations, including the Hindu Mandir Empowerment Council, Coalition of Hindus of North America and Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies, condemned the alleged plot and called for stronger action against Hinduphobia. According to figures cited by the FBI, reported anti-Hindu hate crimes increased from 25 in 2024 to 32 in 2025.
Paporakis appeared in court on Wednesday on charges related to terrorist threats and weapons possession. He was remanded to custody until October 30. Investigators have seized electronic devices from his residence, which are being examined by the FBI's forensic specialists. Authorities have said the suspect was believed to have acted alone.
