Ahmedabad, India – Two weeks after a mob of miscreants attacked and injured foreign students at Gujarat University for offering namaz during Ramzan, a cloud of unanswered questions looms over the incident. The students, hailing from various countries, not only faced a violent assault but also alleged police inaction that allowed some assailants to escape.
On the night of March 16, Chisomo Tolani, a PhD student from Malawi studying computer science at Gujarat University, was studying in his room when chaos erupted. A mob of 20 to 25 people attacked foreign students in their hostel block, causing fear and destruction. The incident left five students injured, with two requiring hospitalization.
The majority of foreign students at Gujarat University come from countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and various African nations. The attack was reportedly targeted at Muslim students offering Ramzan prayers, sparking tensions that had been brewing between local and foreign students.
Following the attack, only five arrests have been made, with outsiders implicated in the violence. The police have launched an investigation, registering a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities have also taken steps to enhance security for foreign students, moving them to a new hostel block with round-the-clock security.
The incident has raised concerns about campus safety and the handling of communal tensions. University officials have initiated internal investigations, while external authorities have also intervened to ensure swift action and security for the foreign students. The incident has shaken the university community, leading to introspection and calls for justice.
Despite the ongoing investigations, questions remain about the motives behind the attack and the role of the police in responding to the violence. The episode has underscored the importance of addressing underlying tensions and promoting a safe and inclusive environment for all students at Gujarat University.
As the investigations continue and the fallout from the attack unfolds, the university faces a crucial test in rebuilding trust, ensuring justice, and preventing future incidents of violence on campus. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of all students, regardless of their background or nationality.