Mysuru: A shocking incident involving the alleged assault of a minor boy inside a mosque during namaz has triggered widespread outrage among local residents. The incident reportedly took place on February 13, when a verbal argument inside the prayer hall escalated into physical violence, leading to a police case and multiple arrests.
Altercation during prayer turned violent
According to preliminary police information, the incident occurred while namaz was in progress. What began as a verbal exchange between a few individuals and the minor boy allegedly turned aggressive within minutes. Authorities say the confrontation quickly escalated, resulting in the boy being physically attacked inside the mosque premises.
Initial findings suggest that the accused confronted the boy over a dispute during prayer proceedings. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the situation intensified rapidly, leaving little time for others present to intervene before the assault took place.
The episode has drawn sharp reactions because it allegedly occurred inside a place of worship during prayer time, which residents say makes the act particularly disturbing.
CCTV footage captures assault
CCTV footage from inside the mosque has reportedly captured visuals of the incident. Investigators reviewing the footage say it shows the boy being chased and kicked by a group of accused persons.
In one of the clips, the assailants are allegedly seen kicking the minor with force after cornering him. The visuals, now part of the investigation record, are being used by police to establish sequence of events and identify the role of each accused person.
Community members who have been briefed about the footage have expressed shock over the level of violence shown. Several residents said the visuals underline the need for stricter monitoring and supervision in crowded prayer spaces, especially where children are present.
Case registered, multiple accused named
Police have registered a case based on a complaint filed by the boy’s father. The case has been entered under a Non-Cognizable Report (NCR), and further sections may be added depending on medical and forensic findings as well as legal review.
Four accused have been named in the complaint — Avez, Parvez, Zaheed and Umar. According to the father’s statement, one of the accused is allegedly a rowdy-sheeter, raising additional concerns about prior criminal background.
So far, three of the accused have been arrested and questioned. Police teams are conducting searches to trace and detain the fourth suspect, who is currently absconding.
Probe into intoxication angle
Investigators are also examining whether the accused were under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants at the time of the incident. This line of inquiry is based on statements from some witnesses and the complainant.
Police sources said medical examination reports, behavioural assessment and witness testimonies will help determine whether intoxication contributed to the violent conduct. If confirmed, additional legal provisions may be invoked.
Officials added that they are recording statements from people present during the prayer gathering and from mosque authorities to understand how the altercation started and how it escalated.
Community anger and safety concerns
The incident has sparked anger among residents of the locality, with many condemning violence inside a religious space. Parents in the area have voiced concern about the safety of children visiting places of worship, tuition centres and community halls.
Local representatives and elders have reportedly urged authorities to ensure swift and strict action against all those involved. Some residents have also called for installation of additional cameras, volunteer marshals and clearer conduct guidelines inside prayer premises to prevent similar incidents.
Community leaders emphasised that disputes should be resolved peacefully and that places of worship must remain safe zones, especially for minors.
Police say further action likely
Police officials said the investigation is ongoing and that further legal action will be based on CCTV analysis, medical reports of the minor, and corroborated witness statements. They have not ruled out adding stronger penal sections if evidence supports more serious charges.
Authorities also appealed to the public not to spread rumours or unverified versions of the incident on social media, stating that doing so could disturb communal harmony and affect the investigation.
With arrests already made and video evidence under review, police said the case will be pursued to ensure accountability and to deter similar acts of violence in sensitive public spaces.