Shravasti: Eight Muslim men arrested over an iftar gathering in Uttar Pradesh’s Shravasti district have gone into hiding after securing bail, with families alleging fear of re arrest and continued police action.
The case relates to an incident on March 17 at the Sonpathri Mai Sidhinath Ashram located in the Sohailwa Wildlife Division near the India Nepal border. Police alleged that the group consumed non vegetarian food during iftar and disposed of leftovers in a nearby stream linked to the ashram.
Based on these claims, eight men from Shravasti and Bahraich were arrested under two cases, including a complaint by the ashram head and alleged violations of forest laws.
Although the accused obtained bail, their families stated that they have not returned home. Relatives said the men fear further detention despite following legal procedures. Some family members also questioned the police version, claiming the accused were not present at the location. Allegations of forced entry during arrests were also raised.
Police officials said the accused were identified through video evidence and witness statements. They maintained that action was taken to prevent any law and order issue and added that efforts continue to identify others linked to the gathering.
The case has triggered wider debate on proportionality of police response. Similar incidents in other districts have drawn attention, with critics questioning selective enforcement and raising concerns about the treatment of minority communities.
