Adnan Mansuri, an 18-year-old, faced 151 days in judicial custody for an alleged incident of spitting during a Hindu religious procession in his hometown Ujjain. This seemingly minor act led to a cascade of events, including the demolition of his family’s home on grounds of encroachment.
Ujjain – Home Demolition Drama:
Post the alleged incident, Adnan’s family had to witness the demolition of their home, justified by local authorities as encroachment. As the bulldozer razed their dwelling, a DJ system blared loud music and dhols beat in a display of force. The move was further underscored by a BJP spokesperson’s ominous statement about those who insult Lord Shiva facing consequences.
Bail Granted Amid Witness Contradictions:
After spending five months behind bars, Adnan, along with his minor brothers, was granted bail. The turning point came when the complainant, also the prime witness, refused to identify him during the trial. The Madhya Pradesh High Court noted the witness’s turning hostile and lack of support for the prosecution’s case.
Ujjain – Charges and Hostile Witnesses:
Adnan and his brothers faced charges of outraging religious feelings, promoting enmity, disturbing religious assembly, and public mischief. However, witness contradictions emerged as the complainant and another witness turned hostile, challenging the prosecution’s narrative.
Witness Sawan Lot’s Testimony:
Sawan Lot, the complainant also told NDTV that he did not know Adnan and refused to identify him during a video call from jail to court. While he acknowledged recognizing the other two boys at the incident spot, he deemed the demolition of Adnan’s house unnecessary.
Legal Counsel’s Critique:
Devendra Singh Sengar, counsel for the accused Told NDTV and highlighted inadequacies in the investigation, emphasizing witness inconsistencies. He argued that the prosecution failed to establish a solid case, shedding light on the lack of careful examination in a religiously sensitive matter.
Father’s Resilience Amid Loss:
Adnan’s father, Ashraf, expressed relief at his son’s release but lamented the loss of their home. He insisted on the children’s acquittal and downplayed the demolition, citing an imminent anti-encroachment campaign.
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Ujjain Police Silence on Sub-Judice Matter:
At the Kharakuwa police station, where the FIR was filed, officers remained tight-lipped, stating that the investigation was complete, and the charge sheet filed. The matter being sub-judice, they refrained from providing further details.
