The incident sparks outrage as leaders demand justice amid rising concerns over targeted violence.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – Tension prevailed in the Uttar Pradesh town of Aligarh as a Muslim youth died as a result of a severe beating by the son of a cloth merchant and his accomplices on Tuesday.
The killing has sparked a wave of condemnation and protests from opposition leaders. The incident, which occurred in the Mamu Bhanja area under the jurisdiction of Gandhi Park police station, has reignited debates on communal harmony and law enforcement in Uttar Pradesh.
The victim, identified as Fareed from Ghas Mandi area, was accused by locals of trespassing into the house of cloth merchant Mukesh Chandra Mittal late at night. Reports indicate that a confrontation ensued when Mukesh’s son Rahul allegedly confronted Fareed, accusing him of attempting theft. The situation quickly escalated, leading to Fareed being severely beaten up with sticks, reports reaching here said on Wednesday.
Rahul claims that Fareed fell while attempting to flee, sustaining injuries in the process.
Fareed was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries later. Dr. Murganak Shekhar Pathak, SP City of Aligarh, confirmed the arrest of four individuals in connection with the incident.
“The police acted swiftly upon receiving the report of the assault in Mamu Bhanja area,” stated SP City Pathak. “A case has been registered under relevant sections, and efforts are underway to identify other suspects involved, supported by CCTV footage.”
The tragic incident has sparked outrage among locals and political leaders alike, with members of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) staging protests at the district hospital. They demanded justice for Fareed and insisted on stringent action against those responsible for his death.
Speaking to reporters at the hospital, SP leader Ramesh Yadav condemned the incident as an act of communal violence. “It is evident that Fareed was targeted based on his religious identity. This kind of selective targeting must be stopped, and the perpetrators must be brought to justice,” Yadav asserted.
BSP leader Deepak Verma echoed similar sentiments, stressing the need for impartial investigation and ensuring justice for the victim’s family. “We demand a thorough probe into this heinous crime. The family of Fareed deserves justice, and we will ensure that they receive it,” Verma said.
The tragic demise of Fareed has once again put the spotlight on incidents of mob violence and communal tension in Uttar Pradesh. As the investigation progresses, authorities face mounting pressure to deliver swift and fair justice, while community leaders emphasise the importance of maintaining peace and harmony.
In response to the incident, additional security measures have been put in place in the affected area. The police continue to gather evidence and identify all those involved in the brutal assault on Fareed, promising to take stringent action against the culprits.
The local administration has urged residents to maintain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in their efforts to uphold justice and ensure the safety of all citizens.