Attacks on temples: US Congressman flags rising 'Hinduphobia'; sees 'disturbing trend'

Indian-American Congressman Suhas Subramanyam has denounced a spate of recent attacks on Hindu temples across the United States, calling them “hateful” acts that reflect a broader rise in violence against places of worship.Speaking on the floor of the House of Representatives, Subramanyam said, “Hate has no place in our communities.” He stressed that the targeting of temples, from the BAPS Sri Swaminarayan Mandir in Indiana to the Shri Shri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah, was not a string of isolated incidents but part of a disturbing trend.

The Congressman’s remarks come at a time when Hindu-American groups have raised concerns about rising hate crimes and vandalism directed at temples nationwide.

Advocacy groups including the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) and Hindu ACTion welcomed Subramanyam’s statement, praising him for highlighting the challenges faced by American Hindus and urging stronger action to safeguard religious institutions.The attacks, which have included vandalism and graffiti, are under investigation by local authorities. Community leaders have warned that such incidents not only damage sacred spaces but also create fear among Hindu Americans.