Lucknow: A distressing incident has emerged from Hardoi district, Uttar Pradesh, where a Dalit girl has accused Mufti Imran of sexually molesting her while pretending to perform black magic. The victim's family, believing she was possessed by an evil spirit due to frequent illnesses, sought the Mufti's help for exorcism. Unfortunately, the situation took a dark turn as the Mufti reportedly exploited this belief for his own nefarious purposes.
The case, which unfolded in the Beniganj Police Station area, reveals that the 22-year-old Dalit girl and her family had initially turned to Mufti Imran, hoping his exorcism rituals would cure her recurring health issues. Although her health initially seemed to improve, the Mufti allegedly took advantage of her vulnerability. The girl claims that Mufti Imran not only molested her under the pretense of black magic but also threatened her with the prospect of forced marriage, stating he would prevent her from marrying anyone else.
Mufti Imran, a resident of Hardoi’s Mohalla Krishnanagar, is accused of using black magic to perpetuate the girl's illnesses to ensure she kept returning to him. The victim reported that her health worsened whenever she was away from Imran, who allegedly sent evil spirits to keep her dependent on his services.
The girl’s father, a laborer with five sons and two daughters, had initially sought other remedies, including an exorcism by a villager, before turning to Mufti Imran. This tragic case raises unsettling questions about the dynamics between religious leaders and marginalized communities.
The allegations bring to light the broader issues of how faith and superstition can be manipulated for exploitation. Furthermore, the case prompts us to question the implications for Muslim-Dalit relations and the effectiveness of any purported alliances or unity movements, such as those involving the MIM and Bhim Army, in addressing and preventing such abuses. How can communities ensure that their vulnerabilities are not exploited by those in positions of supposed spiritual authority? And what steps are being taken to address the exploitation of faith by individuals like Mufti Imran?
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