Incidents of violence against students from Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan have surfaced after they were attacked while praying in the hostel of Gujarat University in Ahmedabad, India, The New Indian Express reports the incident, citing local police sources.
The attack occurred on March 16, around 10:50 PM, in the government-owned hostel of Gujarat University. As per Police Commissioner Malik, approximately twenty individuals entered the hostel premises and objected to foreign students practicing their religious rituals, specifically praying, within the institution.
Video Footage and Injuries
Video footage of the attack circulated on social media platforms, revealing some students injured during the altercation. The victims, who are currently hospitalized, were targeted while observing the Taraweeh prayer, given the absence of a mosque in Ahmedabad.
International students (Africa, Uzbekistan, Afganistan etc) studying in Gujarat University @gujuni1949 claim they were beaten up, Stones thrown at them and at their hostel (A-Block), Vehicles destroyed while they were offering Ramazan Taraweeh at a place inside the hostel A-Block… pic.twitter.com/ogJ3h7FUin
— Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) March 16, 2024
An Afghan student recounted how they were questioned about their right to pray in the dormitory. Despite police intervention, the assailants managed to flee the scene after causing damage to property and assaulting students.
Expressing concerns over their safety, an Afghan student called for Gujarat University to relocate them to a safer environment. The affected students, hailing from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Turkmenistan, and African countries, voiced apprehension about their security following the attack.
University Demographics and Response
Malik highlighted that approximately 300 international students, including those from Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, and African nations, are enrolled at Gujarat University. The A-block dormitory, where the incident unfolded, accommodates around 75 foreign students.
The police commissioner revealed that the altercation erupted when the attackers demanded the foreign students pray in a mosque instead. He assured that swift action would be taken, with plans to apprehend the perpetrators soon. The authorities have initiated a thorough investigation into the matter, with Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sangavi directing law enforcement agencies to ensure the culprits' immediate arrest.
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