Girl Allegedly Forced to Offer 'Namaz' in Medical College Hostel in Maharashtra, 2 staffers suspended

Palghar: A first-year student was allegedly pressured to perform namaz inside her medical college hostel in Maharashtra's Palghar district on Sunday, sparking tension on campus and prompting swift action by authorities.

The incident took place on Sunday night at a private medical college in Posheri area of Wada taluka in Palghar district. According to the victim's complaint, an unidentified female student, whose face was covered, stopped her on the fifth floor of the hostel and insisted she offer Islamic prayers, despite repeated refusals.

Police registered an FIR in this connection on Monday night. Early findings indicate that the incident could be linked to ragging, an official said.

What Exactly Happened Inside the Hostel?

Students in the hostel were shaken after the episode. The complainant, a physiotherapy student from Nashik, told police that the confrontation left her frightened. When she informed her family the next morning and sought help from the college, the response did not satisfy them, prompting them to approach the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). 

"The victim informed her family the following morning, who then approached the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) after allegedly receiving no response from the college management," a police official said.

Palghar Superintendent of Police Yatish Deshmukh said, "We have registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Maharashtra Prohibition of Ragging Act. We are scanning the CCTV footage and recording statements of other students to identify the accused."

Police Superintendent Yatish Deshmukh visited the campus on Tuesday to review the situation and ensure peace and said that strict action would be taken against those found guilty.

College authorities say they are cooperating with the investigation.

Why Did the College Suspend Staff?

In response to the incident, the management has suspended two staff members, the hostel warden and a teacher. Local police say the suspension was ordered as a precaution while the probe continues. 

Has This Sparked Wider Concerns?

The event has drawn attention beyond the campus. Right-wing activists held protests near the college, saying the matter needs a deeper inquiry. Police have increased their presence around the hostel to prevent any escalation.