In a disturbing incident at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad, foreign students were targeted by unidentified assailants while offering evening Ramadan prayers. The attackers, reportedly from Block B hostel, not only disrupted the prayers but also vandalized hostel rooms, leading to chaos and injuries.
Key Points:
- Attack during Ramadan Prayers: The assault occurred during Ramadan prayers within the Block A hostel premises. Foreign students were interrupted by a group from Block B hostel, demanding they refrain from praying there.
- Escalation to Violence: What began with a confrontation involving three individuals quickly escalated as more assailants joined in, totaling around 200 people. Stones were thrown, and sloganeering ensued, resulting in injuries to the students.
- Police Response: The Ahmedabad Police promptly intervened upon receiving reports of the incident. They have initiated an investigation and assured strict action against the perpetrators. Teams have been formed to identify the attackers, with one already identified.
- Injured Students: The injured students, including individuals from Tajikistan and Sri Lanka, have been admitted to SVP Hospital in Ahmedabad. Fortunately, their condition is stable.
- Political Response: Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi has ordered stringent action, with FIRs filed against the assailants. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the attack, questioning the role of PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah in addressing such incidents in their home state.
- Concerns for Foreign Students: Expressing dismay over the attack, one student voiced concerns about the safety of foreign students in India. The incident has sparked fear and raised questions about the issuance of visas for international students.
- Community Solidarity: Despite the attack, students emphasized their participation in various festivals and considered everyone as brothers. They condemned the violence, stating it was unexpected and unwarranted.
- Social Media Outcry: A video capturing the attack has circulated on social media platforms, drawing widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
The incident underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and security of all students, regardless of nationality or religion, within educational institutions. Authorities are under pressure to swiftly apprehend the culprits and restore confidence among the international student community.