Shocking Incident at Djelfa Mosque Sparks Outrage in Algeria (video)
The shocking assault of a 70-year-old worshipper by a volunteer imam outside a mosque in Djelfa, Algeria has sparked widespread outrage. The incident, captured on surveillance video, has gone viral on social media, prompting calls for investigation and reform in the oversight of religious figures. The article delves into the details of the altercation, the public reaction, and the official response, highlighting the critical importance of maintaining the sanctity of places of worship and fostering tolerance within religious communities.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
A disturbing incident outside the Zubair ibn al-Awam Mosque in the Barbih neighborhood of Djelfa, located 310 kilometers south of Algiers, has ignited widespread outrage across Algeria. A surveillance video that has gone viral on social media shows the violent assault of a 70-year-old worshipper, known as Cheikh Nourani, immediately following the dawn prayer.
Details of the Assault
The footage captures a man abruptly exiting a vehicle and launching a vicious attack on the elderly man. The assailant has been identified as a volunteer imam at the same mosque, although he was not authorized to perform this role.Local residents report that the altercation was sparked by Cheikh Nourani's request to the imam not to delay the dawn prayer. This seemingly simple request escalated into a physical confrontation, leading to the shocking assault.
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Public Reaction and Calls for Investigation
The release of this video has triggered a heated debate among Algerians, many of whom are appalled to witness such an act of violence involving a religious figure and a worshipper. Commentators have expressed their dismay, emphasizing that mosques should be sanctuaries of peace and reason, devoid of any form of violence.One social media user remarked, “If violence reaches the mosque, it is serious. Worshippers are supposed to embody reason and avoid harshness in their interactions.” Others have called for an investigation, arguing that this incident tarnishes the image of mosques in the country.
Official Response
In light of the controversy, the Director of Religious Affairs and Endowments for the Djelfa province distanced himself from the "volunteer imam," asserting that "the assailant is not an imam" and that "the incident does not reflect the behavior of accredited imams in the region."This event raises significant questions regarding the selection and oversight of individuals serving in mosques, as well as the urgent need to foster tolerance and mutual respect within religious communities.
Conclusion
As Algeria grapples with the implications of this incident, it highlights the critical importance of maintaining the sanctity of places of worship and ensuring that they remain environments of peace and understanding. The call for accountability and reform in the oversight of religious figures is more pressing than ever as the nation seeks to address the underlying issues that led to this shocking confrontation.
