Foreign Students
A group of foreign students studying in India’s western Gujarat state faced a terrifying ordeal when they were violently attacked by a Hindu far-right mob while offering prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.
The distressing incident unfolded at the premises of Gujarat University in Ahmedabad, where the students had gathered for tarawih prayers, a customary practice during Ramadan.
Due to the absence of a mosque on the university campus, the students had convened inside the boys’ hostel for their peaceful worship.
However, their solemn observance was abruptly disrupted when a mob, armed with sticks and knives, stormed the hostel premises, subjecting the students to acts of violence and vandalism.
Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos as the assailants shouted slogans and hurled stones, causing extensive damage to property and leaving at least four students injured.
Shocking videos circulated on social media depicted the aftermath of the attack, revealing ransacked dormitories and destroyed personal belongings, including motorcycles and electronic devices.
The victims hailed from diverse backgrounds, representing countries such as Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and various African nations, underscoring the multicultural composition of the targeted group.
Two students sustained severe injuries and are currently undergoing medical treatment at a local hospital. In response, authorities have launched an investigation to apprehend the perpetrators, with the police commissioner confirming the receipt of complaints against the assailants.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has condemned the attack, pledging to take stringent action against the culprits and reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all foreign students studying in the country.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with political leaders, including Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi, calling for urgent measures to address religious intolerance and violence.
Gujarat University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Neerja A Gupta has emphasized the importance of cultural sensitivity and announced plans to provide orientation sessions for international students to promote better understanding of local customs.
The assault on foreign students during Ramadan prayers underscores the need for concerted efforts to combat religious bigotry and uphold the rights of individuals, irrespective of their faith or nationality.
