'Ensure safety of Indians': MEA's strong message to US after Hindu temple 'attack' plot

The front of Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple is seen in Aurora, Ill, against which a shooting bid was stoppedNEW Delhi: The ministry of external affairs on Friday expressed concern over the foiled mass-shooting plot targeting a Hindu temple in Aurora, near Chicago."This is obviously a matter of deep concern for us. At the same time it is something that shows or highlights the increasing cases of hate crimes and racial discrimination against the Indian communities in the United States," said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during bi-weekly media briefing."We have taken note of the action that the US law enforcement authorities have undertaken once this incident happened but we call on the United States side to ensure the safety, security and security of the Indian nationals in the country," he added.This comes after a 19-year-old man, Alexandros Paporakis, has been charged with making a terrorist threat and unlawful possession of a weapon after allegedly threatening a mass shooting at the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, near Chicago. Authorities were alerted by a co-worker who reported concerning electronic communications, and investigators reportedly found writings expressing white supremacist views. The allegations are yet to be proven in court.MEA had issued a statement on Thursday as well, calling it "particularly disturbing". "We expect US authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter, bring those responsible to justice, and take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents," it added.