The family seeks justice amidst claims of targeted harassment and false accusations
PATNA – A Muslim family in Sitamarhi has alleged an attack by men impersonating police officers, escalating fears of targeted harassment. The incident, which occurred on December 24, left three women severely traumatised and raised serious questions about law enforcement conduct of the administration.
The family, already embroiled in a contentious legal battle after their son was implicated in a dubious arms case, now faces renewed fears for their safety.
Reshmi, a widow and one of the victims, described the ordeal to The Observer Post. “They smashed the gate and stormed in, claiming to be police,” she said, adding that the intruders hurled insults and used violence when confronted. When she demanded identification, one assailant grabbed her hair and smashed her head against a wall, causing significant injuries.
Reshmi’s elderly mother, a heart patient praying at the time, was also assaulted. Reshmi identified two attackers, including a man named Sonu Yadav and a local SHO allegedly not in uniform. “How can a police officer behave like this?” she asked in disbelief.
The family’s ordeal did not begin with this attack. A month after Reshmi’s son, Urooj Khan, returned from Qatar, he was named in an arms case. “He has no criminal record,” said a relative, Saddam. “The locals have vouched for his innocence, stating that Urooj was not even present when the charges were made.”
Despite these claims, the family was forced to approach the High Court after initial appeals to local authorities yielded no results. The matter remains in court, but the attack has exacerbated their vulnerability. “While the case is ongoing, how can they justify breaking into our home without a warrant?” Saddam asked.
According to Reshmi, the assailants threatened to abduct her and “lock her in a room to make her unconscious.” The brutality left her with no choice but to flee to a relative’s home. Adding to their plight, the injured family members have reportedly been barred from seeking medical attention, further compounding their trauma.
Saddam claimed that the attackers returned with reinforcements after the initial assault. “They brought a police force to intimidate us and ensure we remained silent,” he said.
The attack has sparked outrage within the local community, with neighbours rallying to support the family. Several residents signed a petition advocating for Urooj’s innocence, which was presented to authorities. However, no substantial action has been taken thus far.
“Such incidents show the vulnerability of Muslims in certain areas,” said Abdul Latif, a local activist. “This isn’t just an attack on one family; it’s an attack on the basic sense of security that every citizen deserves.”
Latif also called for an independent investigation, stating, “If the accused officers are guilty, they must be held accountable. We cannot allow abuse of power to go unchecked.”
The family’s plight has also drawn criticism from legal experts, who argue that the case raises serious ethical and procedural concerns. Advocate Priya Singh stated, “If the police were indeed involved, entering a house without a warrant violates the constitutional rights of the family. This warrants immediate investigation and action.”
The ongoing delays in the High Court due to Christmas and New Year have further frustrated the family’s pursuit of justice. “We feel abandoned,” said Reshmi. “We are fighting on all fronts, but it feels like the system is against us.”
The incident has also reignited debates about the treatment of minorities in India. Human rights groups have pointed to a growing trend of communal violence and systemic discrimination. “This is not an isolated case,” said Farah Khan of the All India Minority Rights Forum. “We need stringent measures to ensure accountability and protection for vulnerable communities.”
As the family continues to seek justice, their case has become emblematic of the broader challenges faced by minorities in the region. The incident has not only left scars on the victims but also underscored the urgent need for systemic reform to protect the rights of all citizens.
Despite their trauma and displacement, Reshmi’s family remains determined to fight for justice. “We want the truth to come out,” she said. With the support of their community, they hope their struggle will expose systemic injustices and secure the safety they deserve.
