Hyderabad, India – A violent attack on a school in Hyderabad, India has shocked the community and raised concerns over religious tensions in the region. Father Jaison Joseph, the school’s principal, detailed the terrifying incident where he was surrounded and beaten by a mob of over 500 people wearing saffron clothes. The attack took a religious turn as the priest was forced to chant “Jai Sri Ram” while the mob vandalized the school building and assaulted teachers and staff members.
The situation escalated further when the attackers targeted a statue of St. Teresa of Calcutta and damaged the security office of the school. The school, which enrolls over 1,000 students with a diverse religious background, became a battleground for religiously motivated violence. Bishop Prince Antony Panengaden of the Adilabad Diocese of the Syro-Malabar Church described the attack as involving various political parties, indicating a disturbing trend of religious intolerance and violence in the area.
The incident at the school, which is managed by the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament, has sparked outrage and calls for action to address the underlying tensions in the community. The authorities have been urged to investigate the attack thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. With a majority Hindu student population, the school represents a microcosm of the diverse religious landscape in India, making it imperative to ensure the safety and security of all students and staff members.
The attack serves as a grim reminder of the importance of promoting religious tolerance and understanding in a society as diverse as India. It highlights the need for peaceful coexistence among different religious communities and the protection of educational institutions as safe spaces for learning and growth. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this violent incident, efforts must be made to heal divides and foster unity among people of all faiths. The school stands as a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity, calling for solidarity and support from all members of the community during this challenging time.