Tension and violence gripped the Mahidpur Road area of Ujjain on Wednesday following serious allegations of molestation against a 30-year-old auto-rickshaw driver. The accused, identified as Zuber Mansuri, was apprehended by right-wing activists, assaulted, and subsequently handed over to the police.
Details of the Alleged Harassment
According to Ujjain Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma, the accused had been ferrying the 16-year-old girl to and from her coaching classes for an extended period. The police complaint filed by the minor reveals a pattern of predatory behaviour. The driver allegedly engaged her in unnecessary conversations, made persistent phone calls, sent messages, and tried to influence her by offering gifts.
SP Sharma stated that the complaint further alleges the accused committed objectionable and criminal acts on multiple occasions. The minor reported that Mansuri threatened her with defamation and other repercussions if she disclosed the incidents to anyone, subjecting her to undue pressure and intimidation to maintain her silence.
Protests Escalate into Violence and Vandalism
After the distressed girl confided in her family, they immediately approached the police to file a formal complaint. As news of the incident spread, right-wing workers gathered in the area, staging a vehement protest. Their demands included strict action against the accused, with some calling for him to be publicly paraded and his house demolished.
The demonstration quickly intensified. Protesters blocked the busy Mahidpur Road, raising slogans. The situation soon turned violent, with several shops being vandalised and set ablaze. The tension was further heightened when some protesters demanded the removal of minority community drivers from school vehicles.
Police Response and Investigation Status
The large, agitated crowds forced the police to deploy additional forces to bring the situation under control. Police officials confirmed that the accused's mobile phone was seized, and a preliminary examination revealed several suspicious videos, which are now being verified and analysed as part of the ongoing investigation.
A case has been registered against Zuber Mansuri under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He has been formally arrested. The police have also initiated a separate investigation into the incidents of vandalism, arson, and property damage that occurred during the protest.
While authorities have stated that the situation is now under control, security arrangements in the area remain tightened to prevent any further flare-up of violence.
