In Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi district, two Muslim brothers, Niyaz Ahmed and Khurshid Ahmed, were brutally attacked by a Hindutva group while collecting Holi donations. The attackers, armed with sharp weapons and sticks, forced the brothers to chant “Jai Shri Ram.”
The assault occurred in Dindayalpur village. Niyaz was returning from Taraweeh prayers when he was attacked. The group hurled religious slurs, hit him on the head, shoulder, and back, and left him unconscious. A viral video shows Niyaz with a blood-stained shirt and a bandaged head.
Khurshid tried to intervene but was also beaten. Both brothers were forced to chant Hindu slogans and were assaulted when they refused. The attackers, initially around a dozen, were later joined by more individuals.
Outrage erupted on social media, with users tagging Varanasi police and district officials, demanding action. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Varuna Zone, confirmed that an FIR had been filed at Sarnath Police Station and legal proceedings were underway.
The case has raised concerns over minority safety. Many criticized the state government, pointing to its contradictory stance—advising Muslims to stay indoors during Holi, yet failing to protect them even in their homes.
