Tension Mounts in Nainital Following Rape Incident; Tourism Severely Impacted Amidst Violence and Outrage; Appeals for Peace Made.
Nanital: Nainital, once known for its serene valleys and tourism, is now shrouded in anger, fear, and tension. A rape incident involving a minor girl on April 12th has sent shockwaves through the city.
This heinous act has ignited public fury, leading to widespread unrest and significantly impacting tourism. Tourists are leaving Nainital, and bookings at hotels and homestays are being canceled. The situation has deteriorated to the point where Nainital appears unusually quiet, perhaps for the first time since the lockdowns.
The Heinous Rape Incident
On April 12th, a 73-year-old man raped a 14-year-old girl in Nainital. The accused lured the girl into his vehicle with a bribe of 200 rupees and then, brandishing a knife, committed the rape. The girl remained silent for a few days after the incident but eventually confided in her older sister, leading to the filing of a complaint against the accused.
Rising Violence and Outrage in the City
Following the filing of the complaint, Hindu organizations and local residents expressed their outrage. Hundreds gathered outside the police station, resulting in vandalism and violence. The police had to deploy additional forces after a crowd gathered near a mosque. Due to stone-pelting, assaults, and a tense situation, the police and administration took immediate action and shut down markets from Mallital to Tallital.
Large Protest on May 1st
On May 1st, thousands of local citizens and activists took to the streets and marched to the Commissioner's office. They submitted a memorandum to Uttarakhand's Commissioner Deepak Rawat, demanding the strictest possible punishment for the accused. Protesters demanded the accused be handed over to them. Considering the security situation, the police imposed Section 144 and warned against spreading rumors.
Questions Raised on Administrative Failure
Local residents also questioned why senior district officials, such as the DM and SSP, did not reach the scene immediately after the incident. While the Superintendent of Police and SDM managed the situation on the ground, the absence of higher authorities fueled further anger.
Police Action and Appeals for Peace
The police have arrested the accused, and the medical examination and interrogation process are underway. According to a police spokesperson, a fair and speedy investigation is underway. The public has been appealed to maintain peace and allow the law to take its course. The police have assured that no effort will be spared in ensuring the accused receives punishment under the law.
