Gujarat University violence: VC questions sole attribution of namaz for attack on foreign students
PTC News Desk: In a concerning incident at Gujarat University hostel in Ahmedabad on Saturday, a group of individuals intruded and assaulted foreign students while they were engaged in offering namaz on the premises.
Neerja Gupta, the vice-chancellor of Gujarat University, has expressed skepticism regarding the assertion that namaz alone could have incited the violence against the foreign students. In an report provided to The Indian Express, Gupta suggested that the lack of understanding of local customs by the foreign students may have played a role in the altercation. She pointed out that the consumption of non-vegetarian food by foreign students and the disposal of leftovers might have contributed to tensions in Gujarat's predominantly vegetarian society.
Gupta emphasised the importance of sensitising and guiding foreign students about local culture and norms to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. She highlighted the necessity of fostering a deeper appreciation and respect for the traditions and sensitivities of the local community among foreign students.
The vice-chancellor's remarks underscore the complexities surrounding cultural integration and the need for proactive measures to promote harmony and understanding among diverse communities within educational institutions. As investigations into the incident continue, it becomes imperative for authorities to address underlying issues and work towards creating an environment of inclusivity and mutual respect on campus.
Also Read: 20-year-old Andhra Pradesh student found dead in forest in US
Over the weekend, an unsettling incident unfolded at the Gujarat University hostel in Ahmedabad, where a group of individuals reportedly assaulted foreign students who were conducting namaz within the premises. This act of violence resulted in injuries to five individuals, with two students—one from Sri Lanka and another from Tajikistan—requiring hospitalisation.
A circulating video purportedly capturing the altercation has gained traction on social media, depicting a student engaging in physical altercations with another individual expressing grievances over the namaz being performed on the university campus.
In response, the Gujarat Police have taken swift action, apprehending several individuals believed to be involved in the attack. Authorities have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against approximately 25 unidentified individuals on charges including rioting, unlawful assembly, causing bodily harm, property damage, and trespassing.
This incident has elicited widespread condemnation from various sectors of society. Opposition parties have criticized the ruling BJP government for what they perceive as a failure in maintaining law and order in the state.
The Ministry of External Affairs has also taken notice of the situation. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, via a statement on social media, affirmed that the Gujarat government is undertaking stringent measures against the perpetrators.
Also Read | PM Modi counters Rahul Gandhi's 'Shakti' remark, says ' I accept challenge'
Also Read | Tamilisai Soundararajan resigns as Telangana Governor, eyes Lok Sabha Elections 2024
(Inputs from agencies)
-
