A charity says their peaceful protest against animal cruelty was interrupted by a group of men.

A PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) India staff member, who is Muslim, is believed to have sustained facial and other wounds after a riot broke out in Bhopal, India.

It was in response to an protest in which a woman wore a burqa adorned with vegetables – for people to celebrate a cruelty-free Id-ul-Zuha, or Bakr-Eid.

For the holiday, in which alms are given to the poor, a goat is traditionally sacrificed.

The PETA India staff members and some local volunteers had gathered outside the Tajul Masajid, considered the largest mosque in India, to inform others that some Muslims celebrate by giving clothing, money or fruit, pulses and other food offerings to the poor at Eid rather than slitting a goat's throat and offering the animal's meat. They carried signs that read, "Make Eid Happy for All: Try Vegan".

PETA say another staff member had her trousers ripped as she tried to get away as the growing mob called for the women to be stripped and stoned, whilst throwing stones at their faces.

"The beautiful religion of Islam has always viewed animals as a special part of God's creation", said PETA India Lettuce Lady Benazir Suraiya, who also works for the organisation as its media and celebrity projects specialist.

"We simply wanted to encourage everyone to help make the world a kinder place by taking the opportunity that Bakrid affords to give alms such as vegetables, fruits, breads or pulses to people and animals in need and choosing delicious, healthy meals that no one has to die for."