Brutal killing in western India sparks religious tensions
New Delhi, Jun 28 (EFE).- The brutal killing of a young tailor on Tuesday in the western Indian city of Udaipur sparked religious tensions, as the accused cited religious sentiments as the reason behind the crime.
The man was beheaded in his shop by at least two men who entered the establishment – situated in a busy street of the city in the state of Rajasthan – pretending to be clients.
Footage shared by the accused show the tailor taking measurements before his murder.
Soon after the video clips began to circulate on social media, an angry crowd of people came out on the streets to demand action against the perpetrators.
The incident has intensified tensions between the dominant Hindu and minority Muslim community in India, which have been at loggerheads in recent years.
As per Indian media reports, the tailor was killed days after he posted a social media message in support of Nupur Sharma, a former spokesperson of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party who was fired from her post for making controversial comments against Prophet Mohammad in a TV debate.
In the message claiming responsibility for the killing, the alleged culprits also issued threats against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Hours later, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said both the accused have been arrested and would be given stringent punishments.
Gehlot appealed to the citizens to maintain calm, while authorities imposed an indefinite curfew and suspended internet in the area.
Thousands of officers have been deployed in Udaipur to maintain order, while search continues for other people who may have been involved in the crime.
The chief minister urged people to not make the atmosphere worse by sharing the video.
Less than two weeks ago, India witnessed massive protests in several states over the alleged insult of Prophet Mohammad by former BJP spokespersons.
At least two people were killed and hundreds injured in the protests and subsequent clashes with security agencies. EFE
igr/ia
