Three men sustain severe injuries; four accused arrested and search is on for others, claim police
HAPUR — A Muslim family was subjected to a violent mob attack late on Friday night in Uttar Pradesh’s Hapur district, leaving three men severely injured. Besides, the burqa-clad womenfolk of the family were molested by about a dozen strong group armed with iron rods and bricks.
Police confirmed that four men have been arrested, while others remain absconding.
The incident took place at Masuta turn under Pakhwa police station when Sajid, a resident of Machhina village in Ghaziabad, was returning home with his brother Zahid and their families. Around a dozen unidentified assailants stopped their car, attacked them with iron rods and bricks, vandalised the vehicle, and molested the women.
A local villager, Shahzad of Nadauri, who attempted to intervene, was also beaten severely. The victims sustained injuries and were left traumatised by the assault.
Following a complaint, police registered a case and arrested four accused on Sunday: Nishant, son of Bobby; Chhotu alias Hathud, son of Brijesh; Shiva, son of Pawan; and Mohit Tomar, son of Chandrapal.
Inspector Pateesh Kumar of Pakhwa police station told reporters: “We are searching for the remaining accused and they will be arrested soon. No culprit will be spared.”
The attack has triggered anger among Muslims in the area. A delegation from the Pakhwa chapter of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind met the police inspector and submitted a memorandum demanding swift and strict action against all the culprits.
Local Jamiat leader, Maulana Rashid, said: “This is not just an attack on one family. This is an attack on the dignity of Muslims. Women were harassed in full view, and the administration must act firmly.”
The delegation further called for increased protection for minority families travelling at night, warning that repeated incidents of such violence are deepening fear within the Muslim community.
Inspector Pateesh Kumar urged the public to trust the legal process. “We appeal to people to cooperate with the administration and not escalate tensions. The investigation will be impartial and strict action will follow,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jamiat representatives have appealed to Muslims to maintain peace. “We want justice through law and not violence,” said Abdul Wahid, a senior member of the delegation. “Our appeal to the community is to stay calm but keep pressing for accountability.”
Muslim leaders in Hapur and surrounding districts say this incident reflects a troubling pattern of mob attacks targeting minorities in Uttar Pradesh. Locals allege that such violence is emboldened by a climate of impunity.
As Sajid’s family recovers from their ordeal, questions remain over how long Muslim families will have to endure fear while exercising their right to travel safely in their own state.
