Uttarakhand High Court Responds to Communal Tensions in Nainital

High Court Takes Action Amid Rising Tensions

On Friday, the Uttarakhand High Court initiated suo motu proceedings regarding the escalating communal unrest in Nainital, instructing law enforcement to prevent public gatherings and uphold order.

Violent clashes erupted in the popular resort town on Wednesday night following the arrest of a 65-year-old Muslim man, accused of raping a 12-year-old girl.

A division bench comprising Justices Manoj Kumar Tiwari and Vivek Bharti Sharma urged authorities to monitor online activities to curb the spread of misinformation.

The court emphasized the need for police to actively engage with the community and increase patrols to avert further violence.

Deputy Advocate General JS Virk reported to the court that a significant police presence had been established to ensure peace, with checks on vehicles arriving in Nainital from Haldwani, Kaladhungi, and Bhimtal.

The accused, identified as Usman, was a contractor who allegedly lured the minor with money before committing the crime on April 12. A first information report was filed on Wednesday night under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

In response to the incident, a group from the Hindu community vandalized businesses owned by Muslims in the vicinity of Usman's workplace.

The mob reportedly threw stones at a mosque, shouted anti-Pakistan slogans, and damaged multiple vehicles, according to police sources.

By 12:30 am on Thursday, the situation was reportedly brought under control, as stated by Superintendent of Police Crime Jagdish Chandra.

On Thursday, Hindu groups staged protests outside the police station, demanding action against the accused in the rape case.