Pudukkottai: Police in Tamil Nadu’s Pudukkottai district have registered a case against three men after a Muslim woman alleged public harassment and forcible removal of her face veil during a community food distribution.
The incident occurred around noon on Sunday at Ammapattinam South Street in Manamelkudi. A local jamaat was distributing biryani for a price during a festival event held at the jamaat hall. The woman, identified as Serina Begum, 55, arrived at the venue to collect food.
Police said a dispute arose after organisers accused her of presenting fake tokens. During the argument, jamaat leaders questioned her identity and demanded she uncover her face. The complaint states three men, Syed Mohamed, 80, N Shahul Hameed, and M Nasruddin, pulled her burqa and forced removal of the face veil in public view.
Following the incident, Serina Begum sought medical treatment and was admitted to the Manamelkudi Government Hospital on Monday. Police registered a case based on her statement.
Authorities booked the accused under Sections 127, 296(b), 115(2), and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with Section 4 of the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act. Officials said the investigation remains in progress.
The case has drawn attention to issues of dignity, consent, and safety for Muslim women in public spaces. Legal experts note the charges relate to assault, harassment, and criminal force, with specific safeguards under state law for women facing such acts.
Police said further action will follow after completion of the inquiry.
