Beawar, Rajasthan – Tensions have gripped Rajasthan’s Beawar district following the arrest of nine Muslim youths in connection with an alleged molestation and forced conversion case. Amid mounting pressure from Hindutva groups, authorities demolished the house of one of the accused and sealed a local mosque and cemetery.
According to reports, ten individuals—nine Muslims and one Jaat—were taken into custody after Rajasthan Police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), citing that the alleged victims were minors. Despite a lack of concrete evidence supporting claims of forced conversion, right-wing groups have staged protests, demanding strict action against the accused.
The incident, which occurred in Vijaynagar on February 16, has since led to heightened communal tensions. Notices were issued to the families of the accused, directing them to present ownership documents for their properties or risk eviction. On Monday, officials from Vijaynagar Nagar Palika, assisted by Rajasthan Police, proceeded with the demolition of a portion of the residence belonging to Rehan, one of the accused.
Raj Mohammad, Rehan’s father, stated that the family had submitted all required documents to the authorities. “We followed all legal procedures and submitted the paperwork they asked for, yet the demolition went ahead,” he lamented.
In a further escalation, notices were also served to the local Jama Masjid and cemetery in Vijaynagar, leading to their closure. Members of the mosque committee have condemned the move, calling it collective punishment. “The authorities are punishing an entire community without any conclusive proof of wrongdoing,” said Haji Jalal Pathan, head of the Jama Masjid committee.
Meanwhile, Hindutva outfits such as the Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) have intensified their demonstrations, pressing for more stringent actions, including additional demolitions.
Legal experts have pointed out that such demolitions violate Supreme Court directives, which mandate due process before taking action against a citizen’s property. The apex court has ruled that state authorities cannot act as both judge and executioner, and officials responsible for such actions should be held accountable.
Despite repeated attempts, police officials declined to comment on the demolitions and ongoing investigations. The situation remains tense, with families of the accused fearing further reprisals.
