New Delhi: In a shocking incident that highlights the growing communal intolerance in the country, an elderly Muslim man was brutally assaulted with a shovel for allegedly refusing to chant “Jai Shri Ram”. The attack took place in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, and the disturbing incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern over rising hate crimes, reported the Madhyamam.
According to reports, 65-year-old Rashid (name changed for protection), a resident of a village in Aligarh, was confronted by a man identified as Rahul, who demanded that he chant the religious slogan. When Rashid refused, citing his faith and personal belief, Rahul allegedly attacked him with a shovel, leaving him seriously injured.
A disturbing video of the incident has since gone viral on social media, showing the elderly man pleading while being mercilessly beaten. The footage has triggered condemnation from civil society groups, human rights activists, and opposition leaders who have demanded immediate action against the perpetrator.
Police have registered a case, and Rahul has been arrested under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges of attempted murder and promoting enmity between religious groups. The victim is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital, and his condition is said to be stable.
The incident has once again raised questions about the safety of religious minorities in India and the impunity with which such hate crimes are being carried out. Activists have urged the government to take stronger steps to curb hate speech and violence in the name of religion.
