Daijiworld Media Network - Nainital

Nainital, May 2: Tension flared in Nainital on Friday following the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl by a 75-year-old contractor from a minority community, prompting large-scale protests and heavy police deployment across the town.

The incident took a communal turn as religious groups from Vrindavan descended upon the hill station demanding justice, while police conducted a flag march to assure locals and tourists of safety. “The flag march was organized to send out a message to everyone that the force remains vigilant and the condition is normal,” stated SP Jagdish Chandra.

The accused has been arrested under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Meanwhile, a controversy erupted after Nainital Nagar Palika served a demolition notice to the accused’s wife, prompting strong remarks from the Uttarakhand High Court. A division bench comprising Chief Justice G Narendar and Justice Ravindra Maithani slammed the civic body for procedural lapses and fueling unrest. The Palika later withdrew 62 such notices and issued an unconditional apology.

Aggrieved by the court’s remarks, Swami Sachinananda of Chitragupta Peeth, Vrindavan, led a protest along with 70–80 disciples and local supporters. “We came to seek justice for the girl. If the government does not act, we will ensure the accused’s house is razed,” he warned.

The protest group was stopped near a mosque, where they chanted the Hanuman Chalisa. Despite the tense atmosphere, Friday prayers were offered peacefully under strict security cover.

Joint magistrate Varuna Aggarwal confirmed that checking at all entry points had been tightened to prevent miscreants from entering the town. Kumaon Commissioner urged citizens to refrain from spreading misinformation online and encouraged tourists to continue visiting Nainital without fear.