Ruckus over namaz in Gujarat University hostel; Foreign students targeted by mob

• Foreign students at Gujarat University faced violence as they gathered in the hostel to offer Taraweeh prayers due to the absence of a mosque on campus
• Altercation escalated into a physical confrontation, resulting in injuries to several students and significant property damage
• Authorities have initiated investigations, with FIRs registered against 20-25 individuals

Late on Satuerday night, a disturbing incident unfolded at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad, as foreign students were reportedly attacked within the university premises. The students, hailing from various countries including Africa, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan, were allegedly beaten up by a mob armed with sticks and knives. The cause of the altercation stemmed from the students' desire to offer Taraweeh prayers, the nightly prayers observed during the holy month of Ramzan, as there is no mosque on the campus. The students gathered inside the hostel for this purpose, but were met with hostility when a group of youths confronted them, leading to a violent confrontation. Despite efforts by hostel security to intervene, the situation escalated, resulting in injuries to several students and extensive damage to property.

In response to the incident, state Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi has reportedly directed Gujarat police officials to swiftly arrest the accused and ensure a fair investigation. Meanwhile, the injured students, including individuals from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Turkmenistan, and African nations, have been admitted to the hospital. They have also reached out to their respective embassies for assistance. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has condemned the violence, calling for intervention from the central government, while Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik has confirmed the registration of an FIR against 20-25 individuals involved in the altercation, assuring that appropriate actions will be taken to address the situation and maintain law and order.