Ahmedabad, India – Police in Gujarat, India have made arrests in connection with a violent attack on international students at Gujarat University during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The incident occurred as a group of students from various countries were offering prayers outside their university hostel.
Several students were injured, with students from Sri Lanka and Tajikistan being severely hurt and hospitalized. The police have initiated an investigation into the attack which involved a group of 20 to 25 individuals.
The attack on the foreign students participating in the ‘Study in India’ program, a Ministry of Education initiative aimed at attracting international students to Indian institutions, has been viewed as a setback. The incident is concerning as India works to position itself as a global hub for education.
Gujarat State, where the university is located, has been actively seeking to draw foreign university branch campuses to the area. The attack highlights the challenges faced by international students studying in India.
Amidst the attack, the university’s Vice-Chancellor Neerja Gupta announced plans to enhance security at the hostel and shift the affected students to a new designated hostel. The university has also established a committee to address the concerns of foreign students and ensure their safety.
The international students have expressed fear and insecurity following the incident, with some questioning the effectiveness of security measures in place. The attack has drawn condemnation from various organizations, emphasizing the importance of tolerance and respect for diversity in educational institutions.
As authorities continue to investigate the attack and take action against the perpetrators, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by international students in unfamiliar environments. Despite the setbacks, efforts are being made to ensure the safety and well-being of all students at Gujarat University.