In a suspected hate crime against a Muslim man, Hyderabad police have initiated legal action against several individuals, including businessman KP Vishal Goud, a relative of Quthbullapur MLA KP Vivekananda Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). The accused are alleged to have attacked an Amazon delivery agent, Sheikh Rehan Fayaz (20), on August 5. The attack reportedly happened after the assailants enquired Rehan's name and ascertained his Muslim identity. The incident has raised concerns about communal harmony and safety in the region.
According to reports, Rehan was dispatched to Jeedimetla to deliver a parcel. Upon arriving, he contacted the customer who directed him to a different location via WhatsApp. At the new location, Rehan was asked to apologise for his perceived tardiness. Subsequently, he was requested to display his Aadhar card, which seemingly triggered a brutal assault. The attackers purportedly wielded cricket bats and stumps, leaving Rehan with severe injuries including fractures to his hands and legs.
Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT) spokesperson Amjadullah Khan alleged that the police initially declined to register a case on the day of the incident, and Rehan was not immediately taken to a hospital for treatment. After seeking medical attention at a private hospital, Rehan approached MBT, which assisted him in re-engaging with the police. The case was eventually registered on August 10, according to Jeedimetla inspector M Pavan, who refuted allegations that the police had neglected the initial complaint. The accused have been charged under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including wrongful restraint, voluntarily causing grievous hurt, and criminal intimidation.
In a press conference, Khan alleged that Vishal Goud is a repeat offender of such crimes and has been accused in cases of assaulting people after confirming their identities.