A major controversy broke out in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, on Friday (September 26) night during a Navratri Garba festival when a man identified as Mohammad Hamid Raza allegedly sneaked into the event by posing as “Rahul.” His suspicious behaviour and harassment of a young woman led to chaos, with the crowd catching him and handing him over to the police.
According to eyewitnesses, the episode unfolded in the Khajrana police station area, where a local Garba event was being organised. Hamid, who had entered under the false identity of “Rahul,” was reportedly keeping a close watch on a girl participating in the celebrations.
When his activities raised suspicion, organisers checked his Aadhaar card, which revealed his real name and identity. Members of Bajrang Dal and local attendees confronted him on the spot.
As word spread, tempers flared and Hamid was thrashed by the crowd before the police arrived.
A police team from Khajrana station rushed to the venue, brought the situation under control, and took Hamid into custody. He is currently being interrogated to ascertain his motives. Based on a complaint filed by Bajrang Dal, a case has been registered.
The incident has sparked fresh debate, as several Hindu organisations allege that cases of Muslim youths concealing identities to enter Garba venues are on the rise. They claim such attempts are aimed at targeting Hindu girls during the Navratri festivities.
In response to such concerns, many districts across Madhya Pradesh have already made it mandatory to present ID cards for Garba entry. The Indore episode is being cited as justification for stricter checks.
While the investigation is ongoing, police officials confirmed that Hamid has been booked and further legal action will follow. They assured that security measures have been intensified around Garba venues to prevent such incidents from escalating into communal tensions.
