Foreign students attacked in India's Gujarat over Ramadan prayers

A group of foreign students in India's western Gujarat state faced a harrowing ordeal as they were brutally attacked by a Hindu far-right mob while offering prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

The incident, which occurred at the Gujarat University premises in Ahmedabad, left at least four students injured and caused significant damage to property.

According to reports, the students had gathered for the Ramadan tarawih prayer inside the boys' hostel as there was no mosque available on the university campus. However, their peaceful worship was disrupted when a mob armed with sticks and knives stormed the hostel premises, unleashing violence and vandalism upon them.

Eyewitnesses recounted the terrifying ordeal, describing how the assailants shouted slogans and hurled stones while vandalizing hostel properties. Shocking videos shared on social media depicted ransacked dormitories and the destruction of students' belongings, including motorbikes and electronic devices.

Among the victims were students from Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and various African countries, highlighting the multicultural composition of the targeted group. Two students were reported to have sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident, with the police commissioner confirming the receipt of complaints against the perpetrators. Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violent assault on the students.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has vowed to take strict action against the attackers, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all foreign students studying in the country.

Meanwhile, calls for intervention from political leaders, including Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi, underscore the gravity of the situation and the need for urgent measures to address rising incidents of religious intolerance and violence.

In response to the incident, Gujarat University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Neerja A Gupta emphasized the importance of cultural sensitivity and announced plans to provide orientation sessions for international students to enhance their understanding of local customs and practices.

The shocking assault on foreign students praying during Ramadan has sparked outrage and condemnation, prompting calls for solidarity and concerted action to combat religious bigotry and safeguard the rights of all individuals, regardless of their faith or nationality.