Incidents Across India Raise Concerns Over Violence, Targeting of Muslims

Some incidents in India have renewed concerns over communal violence and mob attacks affecting Muslim communities, as authorities respond with security measures and investigations.

In Tripura’s Unakoti district, prohibitory orders were imposed in Kumarghat after a mosque, several Muslim homes, and shops were set on fire on Saturday following a dispute over donations for a Hindu religious event ahead of the Bhairab Mela scheduled for January 24–26. Police said tensions began when a Muslim trader allegedly refused to contribute funds, leading to clashes, arson, and vandalism in the Saydarpara Shimultala area. Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita was enforced, banning public gatherings and processions. Eight people have been arrested, and authorities said the situation is now under control following deployments of police, Tripura State Rifles, CRPF personnel, and drone surveillance. Residents, however, alleged that Muslim properties were deliberately targeted.

Separately, shock spread in Jharkhand after a Muslim man, Pappu Ansari, was beaten to death in Godda district on suspicion of cattle theft, an allegation his family denies. Police confirmed he was assaulted by villagers and said an investigation is underway. The family and rights groups described the killing as a hate crime, pointing to a broader pattern of mob violence linked to cow protection.