The next day, on 2 May in Haldwani, some local Hindus also ‘put up a protest,’ demanding action not just against the accused Muslim but also against Muslims ‘using different names of shops.’
Meanwhile, the City Magistrate stated that to ensure law and order is maintained, “and the case is not influenced, we are investigating the case.”
Highlighting that this is the tourist season in Nainital, Anil Kapoor Dabbu, Mandi Samiti President, stated that efforts have been made by the authorities to curb any religious tensions so as to the tourist season is not further disturbed.
The accused in the alleged sexual assault and rape case, 73 years old Mohammad Usman has been arrested and sent to jail. Ever since the case came to light, followed by the communal unrest, PAC forces have also deployed in Nainital.
Usman is a contractor by profession. It is alleged that the minor girl is one of two sisters residing in Nainital. Reportedly, Usman sexually assaulted the younger of the two sisters.
Later on, the minor went to file a police complaint with her mother to Kotwali Mallital police station, but this news spread far and wide. An agitated mob of local Hindus then crowded the police station and even the hospital where the minor was sent for a medical test.
SSP Prahlad Meena had earlier stated that, “Strict investigation is ongoing in the case so that such a shameful case does not happen in the future. I appeal to Nainital locals that they maintain harmony and brotherhood in this time and cooperate with the police. No such act should be carried out which maligns Nainital’s image.”
Subsequently, Usman’s family was sent a notice by the Municipal Corporation ordering for the house to be demolished on account of being ‘illegal.’
