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Community leaders and law enforcement unite against hate crimes on Hindus
Bhutoria emphasized the urgency of addressing divisive rhetoric and promoting inclusivity within the community
Community leaders and law enforcement unite against hate crimes on Hindus / Supplied
Indian American community leaders joined forces with law enforcement officials, including representatives from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to address the concerning rise in hate crimes targeting Hindu temples and the escalating threat of Khalistani terrorism.
Led by Ajay Bhutoria, the meeting brought together over 30 prominent community figures to discuss recent incidents of vandalism, theft, and graffiti targeting places of worship.
Among the reported incidents discussed were vandalizations at temples in Fremont, thefts at temples in Sunnyvale and Fremont, and graffiti at various other locations including Stockton and Milpitas. Sukhi Chahal, one of the participants, highlighted the need for dialogue and collaboration to protect places of worship and counter hate crimes.
During the discussions, emphasis was placed on the alarming messages propagated by Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, with concerns raised regarding their potential impact on peace, harmony, and bilateral relations between India and the United States. Ajay Bhutoria stressed the importance of unity in addressing the surge in hate crimes and expressed gratitude for the collective resolve demonstrated by the community leaders and law enforcement officials present.
“This meeting was a crucial moment as we united to confront the recent surge in hate crimes targeting Hindu places of worship. I brought together Indian community leaders, DOJ, FBI, and law enforcement officials from Milpitas, SF, Fremont, and Newark. In the last four months, over 11 temples in the Bay Area alone have been attacked, vandalized, and defaced with hateful graffiti. The fear in our community is palpable, but our collective resolve is stronger than ever,” said Ajay Bhutoria.
Bhutoria emphasized the urgency of addressing divisive rhetoric and promoting inclusivity within the community, calling for continued collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of all members.
The meeting concluded with plans to explore further strategies for safeguarding places of worship and combating hate crimes, including the possibility of organizing a forum with the DOJ focused on protecting all places of worship.
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Comments
Sam Patel
2024-03-14 00:00:00
A more effective way is to breakaway from elected leaders. Give them zero funding. Field a leader from the community in elections at every level Reach out to smaller communities without a voice Even if candidate loses, a statement will have been made to act