Muslim Leaders call for immediate arrests, Government action, and protection for victim’s family after tragic mob violence in sangareddy
Team Clarion
HYDERABAD — Tension is rising in Sangareddy district, Telangana, following the tragic death of 15-year-old Aliya Begum, who was killed while trying to protect her father, Mohammed Ismail, from an alleged mob attack. The incident, which occurred on February 11 in Antharam village, Zaheerabad, has infuriated the local Muslim community.
According to eyewitnesses, the attack began when Mohammed Ismail was urinating in open fields near the residence of Veera Reddy and Vijay Reddy. Reports indicate that the Reddy brothers became enraged and, along with a group of nearly 40 individuals, attacked Ismail. As the violence escalated, Aliya rushed to shield her father but was struck with heavy stones.
“The incident occurred on February 11. When the father was attacked, Aliya Begum rushed to save him. However, she too was attacked and suffered serious injuries. After battling for life, she succumbed on February 15,” said AIMIM MLA Kausar Mohiuddin, who visited the bereaved family.
The brutal attack has left the village in shock, with Muslim leaders, civil and legal rights groups demanding immediate legal action against the accused.
MLA Kausar Mohiuddin met with the Superintendent of Police at Zaheerabad, urging swift action in the matter.
Local Muslims are particularly disturbed by the attack’s communal undertones. Amjadullah Khan Khalid, spokesperson for the Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), attempted to visit the grieving family but was blocked by police. Speaking to the media, he condemned the authorities’ handling of the situation.
“We demand a judicial inquiry by a sitting judge of the High Court. All the accused must be arrested, and the family must be given Rs. 25 lakh as compensation along with a government job and a house under the Indiramma Housing Scheme,” Khalid said.
The All India Milli Council of Telangana has also stepped forward to offer legal aid to the family. Their legal team, including Adv. Afsar Jahan, Adv. Sujaath, Imad Ali, and Mohd Zubair, met with the Superintendent of Police in Sangareddy and filed a formal complaint.
“Our message is clear: The culprits cannot escape justice. We have advised the family not to accept any compensation that undermines their legal rights and not to be intimidated by any threats,” said Adv. Afsar Jahan.
The legal team also approached Public Prosecutor Lateef ur Rahman at the Sangareddy Court, urging him to ensure that the accused are not granted bail.
AIMIM MLA Kausar Mohiuddin criticised the authorities for the delayed response and emphasised the need for justice. “This is not just an attack on a family—it is an attack on the entire community. We will not rest until the perpetrators are punished,” he asserted.
The girl’s death has heightened concerns about the safety of Muslim families in the region. Saba Khan, a social media activist, expressed her grief and outrage on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“#Sangareddy, Telangana: Aliya Begum (15) was hit with stones while trying to protect her father, Mohammed Ismail, from being lynched by a mob led by Veera Reddy and Vijay Reddy. Aliya was preparing for her 10th boards. May Allah elevate her status and grant sabr to her parents.”
Villagers expressed their concern that such incidents are tearing apart the social fabric of the region. “We have lived peacefully for years. Why did this have to happen?” asked a local elder, who requested anonymity.
Local leaders have warned that failure to deliver justice could deepen communal tensions. Amjadullah Khan Khalid has also called for the arrest of all 40 individuals involved and pledged ongoing support for the grieving family.
Police have registered a case against Veera Reddy, Vijay Reddy, and other unidentified persons. While officials have promised a thorough investigation, community members remain sceptical.
“The village is watching,” said a member of the All India Milli Council, adding, “Justice delayed is justice denied.”
The tragedy of Aliya Begum, a young girl who was preparing for her Class X board exams, has become a rallying point for those seeking justice against what they describe as targeted violence against Muslims.
The Muslim community continues to demand firm legal action, with activists warning that any failure to hold the perpetrators accountable could lead to further unrest.
