A Muslim teenager was released after the complainant withdrew the police statement alleging the teen’s involvement in ‘spitting on Yatra.’

In July 2023, a disturbing incident unfolded in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, as a Muslim family’s home was being demolished. Adnan Mansoori, accompanied by his 13-year-old brother and a 15-year-old friend, witnessed the demolition from their balcony featuring drum beats and DJ music, passed by . It has been told that earlier on a ‘Mahakal Sawari’ procession they were standing on their balcony Meanwhile, one participant in the procession falsely accused the boys of spitting on Yatra leading to the recording of the trio standing on their balcony.

Subsequently, on July 19, the Ujjain district administration arrived at Adnan’s residence and carried out the demolition. The police charged the boys, including 18-year-old Adnan, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), such as 295A (deliberate acts to outrage religious feelings), 153A (offence at a place of worship), 296 (disturbing religious assembly), and 505 (statements causing public mischief), along with common intention, based on a complaint filed by Sawan, an Indore resident who was part of the Mahakal procession.

However, a significant development occurred when the Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court granted bail to Adnan Mansoori. The primary complainant, Sawan, retracted his statement during the bail hearing, asserting that he had not witnessed any spitting by the boys and had signed the FIR section under duress from the police. This revelation casts doubt on the legitimacy of the initial complaint, highlighting potential coercion by law enforcement.

The case brings attention to the complex dynamics surrounding religious sentiments, public events, and legal proceedings. As the situation continues to unfold, it prompts reflection on the need for a fair and impartial investigation to ensure justice is served in this matter.