Uttar Pradesh Court Acquits 37 in 2013 Muzaffarnagar Riots Case

In a significant ruling, a court in Uttar Pradesh has acquitted 37 individuals accused of involvement in the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots, which resulted in the deaths of eight people. The judge cited a lack of evidence as the reason for the acquittal. The riots, which erupted following inflammatory speeches by political leaders, led to widespread violence, displacing thousands of Muslim families and resulting in numerous reports of sexual assault. This ruling raises questions about accountability and justice in cases of communal violence.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 25, 2026, 14:07 IST

Court Ruling in Muzaffarnagar Riots Case

A court in Uttar Pradesh announced on Tuesday that it has acquitted 37 individuals linked to the deaths of eight people during the Muzaffarnagar riots of 2013, citing insufficient evidence.

Additional District and Sessions Judge Manjula Bhalotiya stated that the prosecution did not manage to establish the charges against the accused beyond a reasonable doubt.

During the trial, government counsel revealed that a complaint had been lodged by an individual named Imran against 110 people.

Imran's complaint alleged that on September 8, 2013, a mob armed with sharp weapons attacked homes belonging to the Muslim community in Kutba village, resulting in arson and looting.

The riots in Muzaffarnagar erupted in September 2013, reportedly triggered by inflammatory speeches from Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, including Suresh Rana and former MLA Sangeet Som.

The violence resulted in the deaths of at least 60 individuals and displaced thousands of Muslim families. Numerous reports also surfaced regarding sexual assaults and abuse in the Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts.