Mohammad Ikhlaq was killed by a mob in Uttar Pradesh's Dadri over beef rumours.

Everyone in the "Government is clear" that the attack that led to the death of Mohammad Ikhlaq in Basera village in Uttar Pradesh's Dadri is "unacceptable," the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Arup Raha said today. The family, he said, may be moved to an Air Force Station for security reasons.Mohammad Ikhlaq's elder son Mohammad Sartaz is a Corporal with the Indian Air Force. Corporal Sartaz joined the Air Force in 2007-08 and is an aircraft technician.On September 28, a mob of over 100 villagers attacked Mr Ikhlaq's house killing him and seriously injuring his younger son Mohammed Danish allegedly over rumours that he had eaten beef. Nine people have been arrested so far.Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha's statement is a clear indication that senior military commanders are concerned about the possible fallout of such attacks on the forces.Air Marshal Raha is also the senior-most commander and is the Chairman of the Chief of Staff Committee - a tri-services body that advices the Government on a host of issues.The Indian armed forces take pride in their secular credentials and have soldiers from all religions. The Indian Army boasts of mixed regiments that are manned by soldiers from all religions. It has officers from all religions who led their regiments to combat. And, irrespective of religion soldiers fight shoulder-to-shoulder in the Air Force and the Indian Navy."This is a very unfortunate incident" and shouldn't happen to anyone, the Air Chief said and added that the Air Force will do everything for the welfare of the family and the "air warrior." The Chief will also be meeting Corporal Sartaz. "I plan to meet him soon," Air Chief Raha said.He also said that senior IAF officials are "already in touch with the family and Corporal Sartez." Air Marshal Raha, however, ruled out writing to the state administration - a normal practice of the three forces - to ensure the well being of the family. "That would be superfluous," the Chief said.