HYDERABAD, Oct 12: Rioters in southern India killed six members of a Muslim family by setting fire to their home after earlier clashes between Hindus and Muslims left four others dead and 15 injured in the same village, officials said on Sunday.

Tensions have been high in Vatoli village since Friday when violence and looting erupted between the two sides, leading to four deaths, said Andhra Pradesh state Home Minister K. Jana Reddy.

Authorities imposed a curfew on Friday, but were unable to stop the deadly arson attack, which apparently occurred before dawn on Sunday, Reddy said.

“It is a beastly and barbaric act,” Reddy told reporters on Sunday. “Police are investigating the case and we will catch the culprits.”

Three children, including a two-year-old, were among the six burned to death, he said.

Muslim leaders called for better protection of minorities, especially in rural areas.—AP