Vienna killing sparks Indian riots

25/05/09 20:02 CET

world news

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At least two people have been killed in riots across the Indian state of Punjab.

It comes after a Sikh guru was murdered on Sunday by a rival group in Austria. Thousands of angry protesters took to the streets of the Indian state as news of the death spread. Authorities imposed a curfew and the army was put on standby after members, mainly of the Dalit or “untouchable” caste, went on the rampage, torching a train, vehicles and shops. The Indian Prime Minister has appealed for calm. 57-year-old Guru Sant Rama Nand died after armed men attacked the preacher and worshippers with a gun and knives in the temple in the Austrian capital. At least nine people were wounded; one is said to be critically ill. Local reports said the Guru had travelled from India to Vienna to conduct the service even though high-caste members of rival temples had threatened violence if he appeared.More about: Austria, India, Religion

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Mali: Rebel groups agree to creation of Islamic state

Two Rebel groups have agreed to merge and create an independent Islamic state in Northern Mali. After seizing Azawad – an area larger than France – two months ago, the groups had initially disagreed, with the secular Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA)…