Jalna, In a troubling development, Imams were targeted and physically assaulted by Hindutva groups in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, as per separate incidents reported by the Kashmir Media Service. The attacks, involving severe physical assault and intimidation, have raised concerns over religious tolerance and law enforcement responsiveness in these regions.

According to Kashmir Media Service, in Jalna district of Maharashtra, Imam Zakir Sayyed Khaja became a victim of a brutal attack while he was engaged in reciting the Quran within the confines of a mosque. The assault was perpetrated by a group of masked men identifying with Hindu nationalist ideologies, who demanded the Imam to chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’. Upon his refusal, the assailants beat him until he lost consciousness and went as far as to cut his beard. Imam Khaja is currently under medical care at a local hospital, recuperating from the injuries sustained during the attack.

Authorities have lodged a case against the unidentified attackers, invoking various sections of the Indian Penal Code, as the search for the perpetrators continues.

In a similar vein, the district of Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh became the scene of another attack where Imam Mohammad Kamran was assaulted. While at a local tea stall, Kamran recounted that individuals, identified as Durgesh, Sunil, Pramod, among others, affiliated with Hindutva ideologies, attacked him with sticks leading to severe injuries.

Kamran’s attempt to seek justice was met with further dismay as he reported that the local police not only refused to register his complaint but also proceeded to file a case against him and other members of the Muslim community.

These incidents underscore the escalating tensions and the urgent need for measures to ensure the safety and rights of religious leaders and communities in India.