An inebriated auto driver and companions accused of the brutal attack; local Muslims demand urgent action against the culprits
GORAKHPUR – In a disturbing incident highlighting the rising wave of targeted attacks on Muslims, Imam Mohammad Ilyas of Shekhpur Mosque in the Tiwari Pur area of this Uttar Pradesh city was brutally assaulted by an auto driver and his companions on Thursday (September 11) night.
A resident of Chilua Tal police station area, Ilyas was returning home after a dinner meeting in Illahibagh when the attack occurred near Surajkund Chowraha. According to eyewitnesses, the auto driver stopped his vehicle in the imam’s path, and when Ilyas objected, the driver and his associates began verbally abusing and physically assaulting him.
“The attacker tore my kurta and threatened my life. He shouted, ‘Katua hai, ise maro,’” media reports quoted Ilyas as saying, recalling the terrifying moments. Katua is a derogatory word used for Muslims.
“I was returning from a dinner invitation when a drunk auto driver confronted me near a shop. Two bystanders came on an Activa and managed to pull me away.”
Residents of Tiwari Pur were outraged by the incident. Hundreds of locals, standing in solidarity with Imam Ilyas, surrounded the police station demanding immediate action. The demonstration lasted nearly half an hour, creating a tense situation in the area.
Local community members said, “Such attacks spread fear and insecurity among Muslims. Authorities must act swiftly against the culprits to prevent further incidents.”
Omkar Tiwari, CO Kotwali Gorakhpur, confirmed that a formal complaint has been lodged by the imam. “A case has been registered against the unidentified auto driver. CCTV footage is being examined, and arrests will be made soon,” he said, assuring the public of prompt action.
This incident comes amid a disturbing trend across the country, where Muslims are increasingly being targeted under allegations of cow slaughter, theft, or ‘love jihad.’ Such attacks have intensified communal anxiety and insecurity in several regions.
Community leaders expressed deep concern over the growing intolerance. “Our imam was attacked simply because his Muslim identity. This is unacceptable and cannot be ignored. We demand strict action against the perpetrators,” said a resident, highlighting fear among the Muslim population.
The Gorakhpur assault underscores the urgent need for authorities to ensure the safety of minority communities and take strong measures against those inciting violence. The police have urged witnesses to come forward and provide information to help in the swift arrest of the attackers.
