Muslim Family Assaulted by Kanwariyas in Uttarakhand, Shocking Video Goes Viral

A disturbing incident has emerged from Uttarakhand, where a Muslim family was brutally assaulted by a group of Kanwariyas (Shiva devotees) during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra. The shocking video of the attack has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage and raising concerns about religious intolerance during the pilgrimage.

According to reports, the incident took place in the Manglaur area of Roorkee district. The Muslim family was on their way to visit relatives, traveling through a crowded area when their car accidentally brushed against a Kanwar being carried by devotees. Although neither the Kanwar nor anyone else was harmed, the Kanwariyas stopped the car and asked the driver’s name. Upon learning the family was Muslim, the situation escalated rapidly.

Eyewitnesses say the Kanwariyas dragged the family out of their vehicle, smashing its windows and doors. The men in the family were beaten with sticks, kicks, and punches, while women and children were also reportedly harassed and attacked. Despite the arrival of police at the scene, the assault continued, leaving the family seriously injured.

This is not the first such incident reported during this year’s Kanwar Yatra. Several videos have surfaced showing people being targeted on the basis of religion, with some forced to prove their faith by removing clothing. In recent cases from Meerut and Muzaffarnagar, restaurant workers were forced to show identification, and in some instances, even had their clothes forcibly removed to check their religion.

Legal experts point out that such acts are punishable under the new Indian Penal Code (BNS), with Section 114 addressing physical assault, Section 115 prescribing jail terms or fines for intentional harm, and Section 351 covering criminal intimidation.

The Uttarakhand police have registered an FIR against eight accused based on a complaint by the car owner, Nazim. Heavy police deployment remains at the scene due to the sensitivity of the matter.

The repeated incidents of violence and discrimination during the Kanwar Yatra have raised serious questions about religious harmony and the misuse of religious gatherings for unlawful activities. Many are calling on the government to ensure that such sacred pilgrimages are not used as a pretext for hate crimes and to uphold the constitutional values of equality and justice for all citizens.