Violence against Muslim spectators erupted during a troubling cricket event in Gujarat. The event happened at Balwai Stadium, where Hindu rioters brandishing bats and knives fatally attacked Muslim spectator Salman Vehra.
Witnesses state that tension had been rising during the game, made worse by anti-Muslim remarks and jeers from Hindu fanatics.
When a number of inebriated Hindus started abusing Muslim onlookers and then turned violent, the mood became explosive. Witnesses said that in the midst of the turmoil, the victim begged for assistance, but the mob around him did nothing.
According to local accounts, the fight arose from pro-Hindutva groups’ disapproval of Muslim players’ strong performance in the competition.
Tension was created by shouts that alluded to Hindu religious feelings before to the incident.The incident highlights the ongoing religious tensions in India, especially in light of the Modi government’s alleged encouragement of extremism.
International assistance has been called for in order to address the targeted violence against minorities.
