India: Muslim teen thrashed by members of ‘Bonalu procession’ for not chanting ‘Jai Shree Ram’

In a disturbing incident, a Muslim youth was allegedly beaten for refusing to chant ‘Jai Shree Ram’, which translates into ‘Victory to Lord Ram’.

According to reports, the 17-year-old Muslim boy was allegedly attacked by over 40 members of the ‘Bonalu procession’ – held annually in Hyderabad – for not chanting ‘Jai Shree Ram.’ At least 14 people were identified and taken into custody in connection with the matter on Friday.

According to reports, the teen was passing by the procession when members in the procession applied tilak (In Hinduism, a mark generally made on the forehead, indicating a person’s sectarian affiliation), on his forehead and asked him to chant ‘Jai Shree Ram.’

The teen, when refused to do so, was abused and thrashed by the crowd. Afterwards, the teen filed a complaint in the matter with the Charminar police upon which a case was registered.

The accused were booked for wrongful restraint, causing hurt and provocation by hurling insults.

An investigation into the incident is going on.