Rajasthan: Folk Singer Amad Khan Killed for "sub-standard performance" in Jaisalmer

A 40-year-old Muslim folk singer Amad Khan was allegedly lynched to death in Rajasthan's Danta village two weeks ago for his "sub-standard performance" in Jaisalmer.

On September 27, 48-year-old Ahmad Khan was allegedly thrashed to death after a minor tiff with the temple priest over his performance.

Khan who hailed from the Manganiyar community of Muslims (known for their folk songs) has been performing in Navratri gatherings in the village temple for nearly a decade.

Trouble at the village began during a Navratri function, when Suthar, the temple priest, had reportedly asked folk musician Khan to sing a particular song which is believed to please the Goddess and make her spirit enter the priest's body.

When nothing as expected took place, the priest blamed Khan's poor singing. Holding the singer responsible for the "goddess to abandon him", the priest assaulted the 55-year-old singer.

The assault later led to lynching which took place outside Khan's house. Suthar, along with two of his relatives - Tara Ram and Shyam Ram, dragged Khan out from his house and thrashed him and damaged his instruments. Khan reportedly succumbed to injuries on the spot.

After the incident about 20 Muslim families have fled their village following alleged threats from Hindu upper caste villagers.

OneIndia News