A horrific crime shook the Siddharthnagar district in Uttar Pradesh when a 60-year-old Muslim man, Nisar Qureshi, allegedly raped a 9-year-old Hindu girl.
The accused lured the victim to a secluded area near Gandhi Adarsh Vidyalaya on October 3. The young girl managed to escape and informed her family about the traumatic experience.
Prompt Action by Authorities
The victim’s family rushed to the Dhebarua Police Station and filed a complaint. The police swiftly registered an FIR against Nisar Qureshi under relevant sections of the POCSO Act, including 5/6 and 65(2).
The authorities took immediate action, arresting the accused and sending the victim for medical examination.
Protests and Demands for Justice
On October 6, the Hindu community staged a protest, demanding severe punishment for the accused. The protesters marched through the streets, seeking the death penalty for Nisar Qureshi and the demolition of his house. Some attempted to close shops in solidarity, but the police intervened to maintain order.
The situation took a turn for the worse when Muslim youths began hurling stones at the protesters.
The police responded with a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd and restore peace. ASP Siddharth, SDM, and Tehsildar arrived at the scene with additional police personnel to control the unrest.
Eyewitness accounts described the chaos, with some youths from the Muslim community using bricks and stones to attack those closing shops near Saraswati Shishu Mandir street. A sword was even spotted in the hand of one of the attackers.
Dhebarua SO Santosh Kumar Singh confirmed that the accused was booked under the POCSO Act and arrested. The police assured that action would be taken against those involved in stone pelting.
Protesters submitted a memorandum to the police, reiterating their demands for justice, including the hanging of Nisar Qureshi. The authorities have assured that the situation is now under control, with the accused behind bars.
The incident has highlighted tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities in the region. While the police have taken steps to maintain order, concerns remain about the safety and well-being of residents.
The police investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to ensure that justice is served. The community remains on edge, awaiting the outcome of the case.
In conclusion, the Siddharthnagar incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and swift action against crimes, particularly those involving children.