International students attacked in Gujarat University hostel for offering namaz

Guwahati, March 17: A mob attack on international students at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad has left five students injured. The students, hailing from Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and African countries, were allegedly targeted for offering namaz.

Several videos of the attack circulated on social media, sparking outrage. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, while political leaders condemn the violence.

According to reports, a mob stormed a hostel on Saturday night, targeting international students from various countries. The students were reportedly attacked while offering Taraweeh namaz (prayers), a special religious observance during the holy month of Ramadan.

Videos capturing the harrowing ordeal showed assailants vandalising hostel property and vehicles while hurling stones at the students’ rooms. The five students injured in the attack were subsequently admitted to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Hospital for treatment.  

In a statement issued by the Ahmedabad Police on Sunday, authorities acknowledged the assault on international students within the Gujarat University campus and assured that an investigation was underway to identify the perpetrators. 

Among those who spoke out against the incident was AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, who criticised the government's response and called for intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.