Nainital tense after rape of Class 7 girl, shops owned by Muslims vandalised

Communal tensions erupted in Nainital late Wednesday after the arrest of a 65-year-old contractor accused of raping a Class 7 student, leading to violence and vandalism in parts of the city. Police have assured that the situation is now under control following a night of unrest that saw stone-pelting, attacks on shops and heightened security presence.

The unrest began after a first information report (FIR) was filed on Wednesday against Usman, a local building contractor, for allegedly raping a minor girl in his car on 12 April. The FIR was registered under section 65(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) at Mallital police station. The accused was promptly arrested after the complaint was lodged by the girl’s family.

Superintendent of Police (Crime), Jagdish Chandra told the media that the minor, who lives with relatives in Nainital while her mother resides in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, informed her mother about the incident on Wednesday. Police acted immediately, registering the case and apprehending the accused. A medical examination of the victim has been conducted, with the report awaited. The accused is set to be produced in court Thursday.

News of the alleged crime quickly spread through the local community, triggering outrage. Members of the majority community gathered at the Mallital police station before moving to the Gaadi Padav area, where they vandalised and pelted stones at shops owned by the minority community. The crowd also targeted the Jama Masjid, pelting stones at its gate and walls. Some individuals from the minority community were reportedly assaulted during the unrest.

Police responded swiftly, dispersing the crowd and restoring order by around 12:30 am. Heavy police deployment remains in place to prevent further escalation. "We will not allow anybody to take the law into their hands and strict action will be taken if anybody does so," SP Jagdish Chandra told the media.

Authorities are reviewing video footage to identify those involved in the violence and have stated that further action will be taken against the perpetrators once identified.

Police officials have reiterated their resolve to prevent further violence and ensure justice for the victim. The administration continues to appeal for calm, urging residents not to take the law into their own hands and assuring that all legal. The authorities have stressed that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of inciting or participating in violence, underscoring the need for restraint and adherence to the rule of law in sensitive situations.