Man punched, kicked & beaten with sticks while offering namaz near temple in Uttarakhand

RUDRAPUR: A video purportedly showing a daily-wage labourer being kicked, punched and beaten with sticks while offering namaz in an open ground near the Atariya temple in Rudrapur city is being widely circulated on social media on Tuesday evening, inviting outrage online. Police are on alert to prevent the situation from escalating.SP (City) Uttam Singh Negi said, "The matter is being investigated. We have detained the accused and strict actions will be taken." Speaking to some media persons later in the evening, the assaulter said, "Despite warning, the man had been offering namaz in front of the temple for the past three days."In the viral clip, the attacker, who claimed to be associated with the temple management, is seen approaching the man offering namaz and kicking and punching him, while making objectionable and provocative remarks. The attacker is also seen hitting the man with a stick and instructing an associate to video record the assault, even as the victim is seen pleading for mercy.Sidcul outpost in-charge Surendra Bisht reached the spot and initiated an inquiry.The victim works at a nearby under-construction house and had gone to the secluded spot to offer prayers, said police.