Rudrapur: A disturbing incident in Rudrapur has drawn public attention after a video went viral showing a man being beaten with sticks while offering namaz near the Ataria temple.
The victim, Shahid, a resident of Reshambari, works as a mason and was engaged in house construction on Ataria Road. On Tuesday afternoon, he was peacefully offering prayers in a nearby field when the assault occurred.
उत्तराखंड के रुद्रपुर में एक बेहद शर्मनाक घटना सामने आई। शाहिद नाम के बुजुर्ग मजदूर खाली ज़मीन पर नमाज़ अदा कर रहे थे। उसी दौरान अरविंद शर्मा नामक व्यक्ति ने उन्हें धक्का देकर गिरा दिया, थप्पड़ मारे, लात और डंडे से पिटाई की। शाहिद कई दिनों से पास में मज़दूरी कर रहे थे और वहीं… pic.twitter.com/oulmmVJ00l
— Dr. Laxman Yadav (@DrLaxman_Yadav) February 25, 2026
Attackers allegedly tried to force him to chant religious slogans
According to Shahid, a young man arrived with his friends and began attacking him with sticks. Despite his protests, the beating continued, and the attackers allegedly tried to force him to chant religious slogans. The incident was recorded on video, which quickly spread across social media platforms, fueling anger among members of the Muslim community.
Outrage in community
By evening, the video had sparked widespread outrage. At 8 pm, a large group of Muslim community members, led by Youth Congress leader Sofia Naz and Councillor Parvez Qureshi, reached the Sidcul police station. They met with Station In-Charge Surendra Singh Bisht and filed a formal complaint demanding strict action against those involved in the assault.
Community leaders expressed concern that such incidents are happening repeatedly, and they condemned the attack on Shahid as an example of growing intolerance. They emphasized that an elderly man was beaten simply for praying, which they described as unacceptable and deeply hurtful.
An investigation is underway
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajay Ganpati confirmed that a complaint has been received and an investigation is underway. He stated that an FIR will be registered after the inquiry. The accused party has claimed that namaz was being offered on private land, which they had reportedly objected to in the past.
Police officials assured that the matter will be investigated thoroughly and appropriate legal action will be taken. Security has been tightened in the area to prevent further tension.
Rising concerns
The incident has raised concerns about communal harmony in Rudrapur. Community leaders have urged authorities to ensure that such acts of violence are not repeated and that people are allowed to practice their faith peacefully. For now, Shahid’s complaint and the viral video have placed pressure on the administration to act swiftly.