Nainital, Uttarakhand – Communal tensions escalated sharply in Nainital after the arrest of 65-year-old Usman, a Muslim contractor, accused under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly harassing a minor Hindu girl.
The incident, reported on April 12 after the girl’s mother filed a complaint, triggered violence later that evening. Around 9:30 pm, a mob—allegedly including members of right-wing Hindutva groups—gathered near the market area where Usman’s office is located and launched a coordinated attack on Muslim-owned establishments. Videos circulating on social media showed attackers vandalizing shops, assaulting workers, and inciting fear among the local Muslim community, reported the UttarakhandLive24.
The violence intensified as stones were hurled at a nearby mosque, followed by demonstrations outside the mosque and local police station. Protesters raised provocative slogans, leading to further unrest. Schools, colleges, and shops remained closed the next day amid fears of continued violence.
Responding to the developments, the Anjuman Islamia Committee of Nainital condemned the alleged crime and voiced support for the survivor. Simultaneously, the committee denounced the retaliatory violence, especially the targeting of Muslim-owned shops and places of worship, urging authorities to uphold law and order.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Prahlad Meena assured the public that strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty of instigating or participating in the violence. Superintendent of Police (City) Jagdish Chandra confirmed increased deployment of security forces around sensitive areas, including mosques and mixed-community neighborhoods.
Authorities are continuing investigations as tensions remain high in the region.
