Tensions between communities escalate after sexual assault in Asifabad, Telangana

Social tension erupted in Jainoor mandal in Asifabad district of Telangana state after a mob allegedly started attacking the property of a minority community after a Muslim autorickshaw driver sexually assaulted a tribal woman.

A strike was declared in the area today following the sexual assault case. During the strike, a mob of 2,000 people began attacking the property of the minority community. Although the police arrived at the scene, they were outnumbered by the attackers. Videos on social media showed smoke rising as the mob set fire to shops and destroyed furniture. A mosque was also attacked.

Reinforcements were sent to help the police bring the situation under control. Indian Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar and AIMIM leader and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi spoke to DGP Dr Jitender about the situation in Jainoor.

“Deeply saddened by the brutal attack on a tribal woman by anti-social elements in Jainoor village, Komaram Bheem Asifabad district. Have spoken to the victim's family and offered support. Have contacted the DGP and demanded prompt and unbiased action against the culprits responsible for the attack. Have directed him to restore law and order in Jainoor immediately and effectively. Safety of our women and peace in our communities is top priority,” the Union Minister wrote on “X”.

Owaisi said, “The auto driver was arrested and sent to jail. Today I heard that a mosque was attacked and I have seen the videos. The DGP assured me that he is monitoring the situation and sending reinforcements. I appeal for peace and request the Telangana government not to allow anyone to take law into their own hands and those unleashing violence should be arrested… There should be rule of law. I hope SP, Asifabad will normalise the situation and the perpetrators will be arrested and brought to justice.”

Amjed Ullah Khan of the Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT) criticised the Congress government, saying, “When Rome burned, Nero played the flute – so did Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. There has been communal tension in Komaram Bheem Asifabad town in Jainoor since last night but neither DGP nor SP took precautionary measures, resulting in anti-social elements gathering in large numbers this morning, holding rallies without permission and vandalising wherever they found Muslim shops.”

Khan claimed that Muslims were being attacked because they voted for the Congress, saying it was the 19th communal riot since the national party came to power in Telangana.