Lucknow: A Muslim settlement in Ghaziabad, near Delhi, was violently attacked on August 9 by members of the Hindu nationalist group Hindu Raksha Dal (HRD), led by Bhupender Tomar, also known as Pinky Chaudhry. The group accused the residents of being illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar, escalating tensions in the region.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the attackers, who broadcast the assault on social media, were seen vandalizing homes, burning belongings, and physically assaulting residents with sticks while hurling religious slurs. This incident marks the second such attack by HRD within a single week, indicating a troubling pattern of targeted violence.

The attack coincides with a rise in aggressive social media campaigns and statements from some members of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and public figures like actress-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut, which have inflamed tensions and could potentially incite further violence.

Authorities are now faced with the challenge of addressing this surge in communal violence and providing security to vulnerable communities amidst growing nationalistic fervor.