Families seek justice as police begin probe; community members express fear over repeated incidents affecting poor workers and small shopkeepers
NEW DELHI/BAHRAICH — Separate incidents of violence against Muslim workers in New Delhi and Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich have raised concern after victims were allegedly attacked for asking for payment for their services.
In northeast Delhi’s Seelampur area, a young barber identified as Irfan was seriously injured after he reportedly asked a customer to pay for a haircut. According to residents, the dispute began when the customer refused to pay and started arguing.
A neighbour said, “He was only asking for his hard-earned money. The situation suddenly turned violent.”
It is alleged that the man later returned with several others and attacked Irfan using a sharp tool. The assault left him badly injured. His small shop was also damaged during the incident, causing panic in the area.
Police reached the spot soon after receiving information and took Irfan to the hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. An officer said, “We are checking CCTV footage and trying to identify the attackers. Action will be taken based on evidence.”
In a similar case in Bahraich district, a young juice seller named Nafees and his father were allegedly beaten by a group of men after asking for payment. The incident took place in Khajua village under the Ramgaon police station area.
According to the family, a group of customers consumed juice and tried to leave without paying. When Nafees asked for his money, an argument broke out. Soon after, several men allegedly attacked him and his father with sticks and iron rods.
A resident said, “They earn daily and depend on a small income. Asking for payment should not lead to such violence.”
Both victims were seriously injured and were taken to hospitals with the help of people nearby. Their condition is said to be stable but serious.
Police in Bahraich confirmed that a case has been registered. An official said, “We have started an investigation. Efforts are on to identify and arrest those involved.”
These incidents have led to concern among local communities, especially small workers who depend on daily earnings. A community member in Seelampur said, “People are feeling unsafe. Small disputes are turning into violent attacks, and that is worrying.”
Observers say such cases highlight the vulnerability of daily wage workers and small shopkeepers, who often face risks while dealing with customers over payments.
Authorities in both regions have said that investigations are ongoing, and further action will depend on findings from evidence and witness statements.
