29 Apr. 24: In an alarming incident that has shaken the community, Mohammed Masum, a 19-year-old student of KDR Govt Polytechnic College in Wanaparthy district, Telangana, was viciously attacked while on his way to offer evening prayers.
The assault, perpetrated by Masum’s fellow student Lokesh and five other assailants, occurred at approximately 7:50 PM on Wednesday. Masum, who resides in the college hostel, was targeted as he left his room to attend the Isha prayers. Eyewitnesses report that the attackers verbally harassed Masum, forcibly removed his skull cap, and trampled it underfoot. They then proceeded to physically assault him, leaving him with injuries and profound emotional distress.
Masum’s cries for help prompted the assailants to flee the scene, leaving him in need of medical attention. He was later admitted to a nearby hospital by the Imam of a local mosque.
The reprehensible nature of the attack has sparked widespread condemnation on social media, with individuals expressing solidarity with Masum and demanding swift justice for the perpetrators.
Responding to the incident, Wanaparthy police have initiated a thorough investigation, leading to the arrest of one individual involved in the assault.
“We have apprehended one suspect, and our investigation is ongoing. We urge the public to remain calm and have confidence in our efforts to bring those responsible to justice,” stated a senior police official.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this appalling attack, calls for tolerance, understanding, and respect for religious freedom have resonated strongly, emphasizing the need for unity and compassion in the face of such intolerance and violence.
