US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has strongly condemned a recent break-in at the Shiv Durga Temple in Santa Clara, California, pledging solidarity with the Hindu American community and calling for swift justice against the perpetrators.

Krishnamoorthi, a Democratic representative from Illinois, visited the temple on Saturday following the August 28 burglary, during which thieves stole the donation box and other ornaments. The incident marked the second burglary at the temple after a similar attack in January 2024.

“I condemn in the strongest terms possible the break-in and vandalisation of the Bay Area Shiv Durga Temple. The perpetrators of this crime must be brought to justice immediately,” he said in a statement, adding that the community must come together to help the temple recover.

The lawmaker also highlighted a troubling rise in attacks on Hindu places of worship across the US, calling them “abhorrent acts of violence.” In recent months, a temple in Greenwood, Indiana, was defaced with anti-India graffiti, while gunfire struck the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah in June. Earlier this year, another temple in Chino Hills, California, was vandalized with similar anti-India messages.

The Indian government has repeatedly raised concerns over such incidents. In March, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh told Parliament that India takes up every attack on temples in the US with American authorities through diplomatic channels.

Reaffirming his commitment to safeguarding religious freedom, Krishnamoorthi said: “In America, everyone should be able to pray in peace and safety — and I will continue to speak out, show up, and offer my support to preserve this sacred ideal.”