Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet https://himachalscape.com/
Pedalling Fake Love Jihad narrative : Duo nabbed for allegedly taking law in hands
Shimla, June 7,
A day after Shimla Police dismissed social media attempts to link a POCSO case with a wider “Love Jihad” narrative, two persons were arrested for allegedly assaulting and publicly parading two tailors in Sanjauli Bazaar while an investigation into the case was already underway.
According to Shimla Police, Case No. 39/2026 was registered at Police Station Sanjauli on June 6 under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on the complaint of Azim Mirza, who runs a tailoring shop in Sanjauli.
Mirza alleged that a group of individuals entered his shop on June 6 and brought a young woman before him, asking her to identify him. When the woman reportedly declined to identify him, members of the group allegedly assaulted her, damaged the wiring of CCTV cameras installed in the shop and attempted to record her on video.
The complaint further alleges that Mirza and his colleague, Aftab, were forcibly taken out of the shop onto the street, assaulted and subjected to slogan-shouting by members of the crowd.
The alleged assault took place while police were already investigating a POCSO case registered on the complaint of a 16-year-old girl at the Women’s Police Station, Shimla. Based on the minor’s statement, police had registered a case against one accused, identified as Ubaid, who has since been arrested.
Also read Shimla Police reject ‘Love Jihad’ claims, registers POCSO case against one accused
Police clarified that neither Azim Mirza nor Aftab was named as an accused in the victim’s complaint or statement. However, officials said their role, if any, continues to be examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
According to police, despite the matter being under investigation, the accused, along with others, allegedly attempted to unlawfully influence the ongoing probe, took the law into their own hands and assaulted the two men before taking out a public procession.
Based on Mirza’s complaint, police arrested Madan Thakur (43), a resident of Devghodi in Shimla district, and Vijay Sharma (47), a resident of Sanjauli, on June 6. Both were produced before a local court on Saturday.
The arrests come amid heightened tensions in Sanjauli following the circulation of social media posts and allegations surrounding the POCSO case. Police have urged the public not to spread rumours, target individuals without evidence or interfere with the investigation.
Shimla Police reiterated that all aspects of both cases are being investigated impartially and warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the law, irrespective of affiliation or background.
About the Author
