Hindutva activists harass Muslim teacher for teaching Arabic in Uttarakhand amid growing vigilantism
Dehradun: Members of the Hindutva organization Bajrang Dal harassed a Muslim teacher for teaching Arabic to a child at a private residence in Chamoli district of India’s Uttarakhand state, sparking criticism over growing religious vigilantism in the country.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the incident took place in Joshimath, where the teacher was providing Arabic lessons to a child at a private home. Bajrang Dal members accused him of running an “illegal madrasa”, although no official authority has confirmed any violation of the law.
Videos circulating on social media showed the Hindutva activists gathering outside the house, questioning the teacher and demanding that the local administration inspect the premises and take action against him.
The incident triggered widespread criticism on social media, with many users arguing that even if any educational institution was operating without registration, it was solely the responsibility of the authorities to investigate the matter in accordance with the law. They also questioned why private religious instruction inside a residence was being portrayed as a law-and-order issue.
Several users also expressed concern over private groups assuming the role of law enforcement, stressing that only the police and civil administration were authorized to determine whether any legal violation had occurred. Others maintained that individuals have the right to impart and receive lawful education in a private setting and that any allegations should be examined through due legal process rather than intimidation or public confrontation.
The incident has also reignited debate over the freedom to teach and learn Arabic and Islamic studies in India, with critics warning that the growing activities of Hindutva groups are creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the Muslim community.
No official statement had been yet issued by the Uttarakhand administration or police regarding the incident.
