Meerut: An FIR has been registered against three persons, including a labourer, by police in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district for allegedly hurting religious sentiments after one of them was found offering namaz inside a temple premises on a local resident's suggestion as it was raining outside.
Accused Arrested
Police confirmed that the accused -- Asar Mohammad, 56, a labourer; Nazar Mohammad, 40, his aide, both from Zehra village in Bulandshahr; and local farmer Raj Kumar -- were arrested on Thursday. The incident occurred at Auleena village in Bulandshahr's Aurangabad area on May 31, and came to light after a purported video circulated on social media.
Sequence of Events
According to police, Asar was working at Raj's house, which is adjacent to the village temple. During lunch, it started raining, prompting Asar to enter the temple premises for shelter. Initial investigation indicates that Raj suggested he could offer namaz there as it was raining outside. Nazar was also present at that time.
Following the circulation of the video, an FIR was registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 298 (deliberately wounding religious feelings through words, gestures, acts, or objects) and 299 (malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings). The complaint was filed by sub-inspector Abhishek Teotia.
Police Response
Bulandshahr Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dinesh Kumar Singh stated, "The video is being analyzed. Statements of those present are being recorded. The situation remains peaceful in the village. However, we are maintaining a close watch on anyone trying to foment trouble."
Ravindra Kumar, a resident living close to the temple, added, "Raj Kumar insisted that the two men working at his house take rest inside the temple and also offer namaz. When a few villagers got offended, Raj started arguing with them. Later, there was a video of the incident."
The authorities are continuing their investigation to ensure law and order while addressing the sensitive nature of the incident.
