Overview

• A 12-year-old girl in Nainital was allegedly raped by a 60-year-old contractor, Osman, who has been arrested and charged under POCSO and relevant laws.
• Protests over the incident escalated into communal violence, with Muslim-owned shops vandalized, a mosque attacked, and anti-minority slogans raised.
• The Uttarakhand High Court took suo motu cognizance, ordering enhanced policing, internet monitoring to curb rumors, and an apology for an illegal demolition notice issued to the accused’s property.
• Nainital's tourism sector has been severely impacted, with widespread booking cancellations and closures of businesses during the peak season.
• Authorities maintain a heavy security presence, with the situation reportedly under control, but communal tensions and economic disruptions persist.