Two Men Booked in Uttarakhand After Opposing Alleged Harassment of Muslim Shopkeeper

The Uttarakhand Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against two men — Deepak Kumar and Vijay Rawat — who had intervened during an alleged incident of harassment involving an elderly Muslim shopkeeper in Kotdwar on January 26.

The case has sparked debate over the circumstances that led to the registration of the FIR and the role of various groups involved in the episode.

Incident in Kotdwar

According to reports, members of certain right-wing groups allegedly confronted an elderly Muslim shopkeeper in Kotdwar, demanding that he change the name of his shop. The confrontation reportedly created tension in the area and drew the attention of local residents.

Deepak Kumar and Vijay Rawat are said to have stepped in during the incident, opposing the alleged harassment and questioning the actions of those confronting the shopkeeper.

Highway Blockade and Police Action

Following the intervention, members of right-wing groups reportedly staged a protest and blocked a national highway in Kotdwar, expressing anger over what they described as interference by Kumar and Rawat.

The highway blockade led to traffic disruption and prompted police intervention. Authorities later registered an FIR against Deepak Kumar and Vijay Rawat in connection with the incident. Officials have not publicly disclosed the specific sections under which the case has been filed but indicated that the matter is under investigation.

Police Statement

Police officials stated that action was taken based on complaints received and that all aspects of the incident are being examined. They emphasised that maintaining law and order remains the administration’s priority.

Authorities also said that any unlawful activity, including obstruction of public roads or attempts to disturb communal harmony, would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Growing Debate

The incident has triggered reactions from various quarters, with some local groups questioning the decision to book the two men who allegedly attempted to prevent harassment. Others have defended the police action, stating that due process must be followed and all sides should be heard.

Kotdwar, located in Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal district, witnessed heightened security following the incident to prevent any further escalation.

The investigation is ongoing, and officials have urged residents to maintain peace while the matter is being probed.