African envoys in India term the attacks against African nationals in the nation "xenophobic and racial". "No known, sufficient and visible deterring measures were taken by India", say African envoys on recent attacks and want an international inquiry.


Four Nigerian students were attacked by a group of Greater Noida residents who took out a candlelight march on Monday, March 27, after a 17-year-old boy Manish died in the NSG Black Cats Enclave due to suspected drug overdose.


The protest march was taken out after the police released some Nigerians detained for questioning in connection with death of Manish, a class 12 student, due to "lack of evidence".


Following the incident, Nigerian high commission officials went to meet the injured nationals and said they felt "unsafe". A senior high commission official said the mission was in touch with the external affairs ministry on the issue.


MEA spokesperson Gopal Baglay said the government is committed to ensuring safety and security of all foreigners in India and people from Africa, including students, remain "our valued" partners. Noting that law enforcement authorities of the district have made arrests and are investigating the matter, he said, "They are also taking necessary steps to keep the situation under control."


Minister of State for External Affairs M J Akbar spoke to the acting high commissioner of Nigeria to discuss the steps being taken by the local authorities for safety and security of Nigerian nationals, Baglay said.