Daijiworld Media Network - Aligarh (SHP)

Aligarh, Jul 18: A Muslim cleric was arrested for sexually harassing a nine-year-old who he imparted teachings of Quran to. The accused has been identified as Mohammad Ahmad who was apprehended following a complaint by the victim's mother.

The accused is a cleric of a mosque situated inside the premises of Aligarh Muslim University. The mother of the victim had approached the cleric so that he could impart the teachings of Quran to her daughter. Soon after, the mother reported misconduct on the cleric's part for sexually harassing her nine-year-old kid.

According to SSP of Aligarh, Akash Kulhari, Ahmad has been arrested and a case against him has been registered at the woman police station under relevant sections of POCSO Act and Indian Penal Code. When confronted by the media, the accused admitted to being guilty of the crime.

"I am a cleric who gives the call for Azaan and if Imam Sahab is not available, I read the Namaz. I used to teach Quran lessons to the young girl. I admit that I harassed her four-five times. The mosque is based inside the university premises."

As a result of the arrest, Ahmad was removed from his post by AMU Public Relation Officer, Omar Saleem Peerzada, stating that they follow zero-tolerance policy in this matter.