Key points
- A mob linked to Hindutva groups vandalised Hyderabad’s iconic Karachi Bakery, demanding a name change due to its perceived association with Pakistan
- Members of BJP, RSS, and Bajrang Dal participated in the attack
- The incident raises concerns about growing intolerance in India
ISLAMABAD: Tensions flared in Hyderabad (India) on Monday after a group of individuals affiliated with Hindutva organisations vandalised the iconic Karachi Bakery, demanding that the business change its name due to its perceived association with Pakistan.
The episode brings to fore the growing strength of Hindutva mindset in India and intolerance towards all things Pakistan, real or perceived.
According to Indian media reports and social media footages, the incident occurred in the afternoon when a mob carrying saffron flags and armed with sticks marched to the bakery, located in the capital city of Telangana.
Signboard damaged
The group proceeded to damage the signboard of the establishment, which has been a part of Hyderabad’s culinary landscape for decades.
Members of the mob were associated with right-wing groups including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Bajrang Dal.
Despite the presence of police personnel at the site, no immediate action was taken to stop the vandals or prevent the destruction of property.
The incident has sparked concerns over rising intolerance in Indian society. Karachi Bakery, “is a 6-decade old Indian brand founded by Khanchand Ramnani which has nothing to do with Pakistan”, said an Indian journalist in a post on social media, while condemning the incident.
