Agra: Tension gripped the Mantola area of Agra on Friday after a packet allegedly containing animal flesh was found inside the Jama Masjid, prompting strong protests from locals. Following the incident, police registered a case against the alleged perpetrator and booked around 60 individuals for staging a protest outside the mosque.
According to police, CCTV footage revealed that the accused, identified as Nazruddin, arrived on a scooty and was seen placing a suspicious packet inside the mosque late Thursday night before fleeing. The discovery of the packet just before Friday prayers triggered outrage among the worshippers, who demanded strict action against the offender.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Sonam Kumar stated that a case was registered against Nazruddin, while those involved in creating public disorder were also named in the FIR. “We had to use mild force to control the situation when the protest escalated,” Kumar added.
Nazruddin, a resident of Teela Nandram locality, was traced after the scooty was linked to a nearby meat shop. He was arrested on Friday, and the police are now investigating whether he acted alone or as part of a larger conspiracy.
Additional Police Commissioner Sanjeev Tyagi confirmed that charges under the National Security Act (NSA) may be invoked. “We are examining the motive behind this act and if there were other conspirators involved,” he said.
In response to the unrest, over 100 police personnel were deployed around the mosque to maintain law and order. The packet has been sent for forensic testing to identify the contents. Authorities have urged the public not to spread rumors and to maintain peace in the area.
