Elderly Man Assaulted, Allegedly Forced to Chant Slogans After Offering Namaz in Rudrapur
Police begin investigation after viral video shows elderly Muslim man being beaten near temple premises in Uttarakhand.
Rudrapur: An elderly Muslim man was allegedly beaten and forced to chant religious slogans after offering namaz on a vacant plot in the Jagatpura area of Rudrapur, sparking tension and widespread concern.
The incident reportedly took place near the Atriya Temple during the holy month of Ramzan. A video of the assault has circulated widely on social media, drawing sharp reactions from various quarters.
According to local reports, the victim, identified as Shahid and a resident of the Resham Bari locality, had been working near the temple for several days. He said he was offering prayers at a spot that was not part of the temple premises and was located at some distance from it.
The viral footage shows a group of individuals allegedly beating him with sticks and verbally abusing him. Following the incident, members of the local Muslim community accompanied Shahid to the police station, where a formal complaint was lodged. They also alleged that one of the accused is a murder convict currently out on parole.
Police officials reached the scene soon after the matter came to light. Authorities appealed to members of both communities to maintain peace and ensured that Shahid underwent a medical examination. Officials said legal action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation and the complaint filed.
Meanwhile, the temple manager, Arvind Sharma, stated that non-Hindu religious activities would not be permitted on temple land, even if it results in legal consequences.
The incident has drawn criticism from local leaders. Municipal Councillor Parvez Qureshi termed the assault unacceptable and called for an impartial investigation along with strict action against those responsible. Congress leader Sofia Naz also condemned the incident, saying that violence and forcing religious slogans undermine constitutional values and social harmony. She urged the state administration to act swiftly and ensure justice.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent any escalation of communal tensions in the area.
