Texas Man Charged with Hate Crime for threatening Sikh Nonprofit Employees

Bhushan Athale Faces Up to 10 Years in Prison for Hate Crime and Interstate Threats

An Indian-American man from Texas, Bhushan Athale (48), is facing federal charges for a hate crime targeting employees of a Sikh civil rights organization. The Department of Justice alleges Athale made threatening phone calls and left voicemails expressing hatred towards Sikh individuals.

According to the complaint, the incident began in September 2022 when Athale allegedly left seven voicemails on the organization’s phone number. These voicemails reportedly contained violent threats against Sikh employees, including threats of injury or murder with a razor. The content also included offensive language and references specific to Sikhism.

In March 2023, Athale is alleged to have made further threats, targeting both Sikhs and Muslims, in two additional voicemails.

The investigation revealed a potential history of religious bias. Authorities claim Athale had previously expressed hatred towards Muslims on a professional networking site while communicating with a former colleague.

“The investigation indicates that Athale has an extensive history of issuing comments and threats based on religion”, stated the Department of Justice.

Athale faces serious charges, including interfering with federally protected activities by threatening violence and transmitting interstate threats. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in jail and a $250,000 fine.

Opinion

This case highlights the ongoing struggle against hate crimes and the importance of legal protections for religious communities. It serves as a reminder of the need to combat hate speech and ensure the safety of all individuals, regardless of their faith. Silence in the face of hate speech only emboldens the intolerant. When we see or hear religious bigotry, we must challenge it head-on, fostering a society where hate has no place to hide.