Amid mounting outrage over the murder of imam’s wife and his daughters, calls grow for an impartial probe
BAGHPAT — The brutal killing of the wife and his two daughters of an imam in a mosque Gangnoli village under Baghpat’s Doghat police station in Uttar Pradesh has left the Muslim community in deep shock. The incident has also triggered serious concerns about the credibility of the police investigation after former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur openly expressed distrust and called for an independent inquiry.
According to reports, Israna, the wife of Imam Ibrahim, and their two daughters were found murdered in their home near the mosque. Police claimed that two minor boys — students of a local madrasa — were responsible for the crime. Both were arrested and sent to jail after questioning.
However, many locals and community members have raised doubts over the speed and transparency of the investigation. They argue that the police have rushed to close the case without addressing key questions about motive and possible involvement of others.
Speaking to reporters, former IPS officer Thakur said, “A fair and unbiased investigation into this case is absolutely necessary. The police alone cannot be the final authority in such a sensitive and brutal matter.”
He further added, “Our organisation, the Azad Adhikar Sena, will visit the site to gather facts, collect evidence, and speak directly to villagers to uncover the truth.”
Traumatised by the loss of his family, Imam Ibrahim has decided to leave Gangnoli village. On Monday, he gathered his belongings from the mosque and left for his ancestral village in Shamli district.
In an emotional statement, he said, “My home has turned into a graveyard. It is impossible for me to stay here. I have lost everything.”
Neighbours described Ibrahim as a quiet, respected man who had been serving as imam for several years. “He was always helpful and taught our children with kindness,” said a local resident. “We cannot believe something like this could happen in our village.”
The killings have caused widespread anger and fear among Muslims in Baghpat and nearby areas. Many residents believe that the police are trying to wrap up the case quickly without examining other possible angles.
A local social worker commented, “Whenever Muslims are victims, investigations are done half-heartedly. The authorities must realise that justice must not only be done but also seen to be done.”
Another villager said, “If minors are really involved, then who guided them? What made them commit such a horrific act? The police must answer these questions.”
Amitabh Thakur, known for his outspoken criticism of government agencies, announced that a delegation of the Azad Adhikar Sena will soon visit the crime scene. The team will meet residents, gather testimonies, and document evidence independently.
He emphasised that “such heinous crimes create a sense of deep insecurity in society, especially among minorities.” Thakur added, “When law enforcement fails to act impartially, it shakes people’s faith in justice and governance.”
The Azad Adhikar Sena’s involvement has brought renewed attention to the case. Many hope that an independent fact-finding initiative will expose any lapses in the police version and bring justice to the bereaved family.
Community leaders and human rights groups have urged the Uttar Pradesh government to hand over the case to a neutral investigative body. They have also demanded proper security for imams and religious scholars who live in isolated areas.
A Delhi-based human rights activist said, “The murder of an imam’s family is not just a personal tragedy — it’s a matter of public concern. If the police cannot be trusted, then the state must step in with full transparency.”
Gangnoli village remains tense as people struggle to come to terms with the horrific killings.
An elderly villager said softly, “We have never seen such brutality here before. The whole community is grieving.”
For now, Imam Ibrahim has left, his home locked and silent. His words echo the pain of many: “My heart is buried with my family. May the Almighty give them justice.”
