Muslim Cleric Assaulted in Muzaffarnagar During Ramzan; Police Register FIR Against Five Accused
28-year-old imam injured in bat-and-stick attack; CCTV footage of the incident circulates widely on social media.
A 28-year-old Muslim cleric was allegedly assaulted by a group of men in Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar district during the holy month of Ramzan, sparking anger and concern among local residents.
The victim, identified as Mufti Abdul Wahab, serves as an imam at a mosque in the area. The incident reportedly took place in the Sarwat locality, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Civil Lines police station.
According to reports, Wahab was either going to the mosque or returning from prayers when the confrontation occurred. CCTV footage of the incident, which has since gone viral on social media, shows Wahab stopping his motorcycle and calling over a group of young men. A verbal argument follows in front of several bystanders.
The situation quickly escalated when Wahab allegedly pushed one of the individuals during the argument. Moments later, one of the men approached him with a cricket bat and attempted to strike him. A nearby shopkeeper intervened and managed to grab the bat, but the group reportedly continued the attack.
During the scuffle, Wahab’s skullcap was knocked off. In an apparent attempt to defend himself, he picked up a metal chair while being surrounded by the group. Despite this, the attackers allegedly overpowered him and beat him with sticks and other objects.
Wahab sustained serious injuries, including head wounds, and was taken to a district hospital for treatment. Reports indicate that he may be referred to a higher medical facility for further care.
Police said that the attackers allegedly stopped Wahab, asked about his identity, and made objectionable remarks before the assault. Following a complaint filed by the victim’s family, an FIR has been registered against five individuals identified as Harish, Lavi, Basant, Rishabh, and Aditya under relevant sections of the law.
Authorities confirmed that one of the accused, Lavi, has been arrested while efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the remaining suspects. Police are also reviewing CCTV footage as part of the investigation.
The incident has drawn condemnation from several community groups, who have called for strict action against the accused and urged authorities to ensure peace and communal harmony in the area.
