Burqa video involving minor girl triggers controversy in Moradabad

Moradabad: A video purportedly showing a group of Muslim girls allegedly forcing a Hindu minor girl to wear a burqa has gone viral on social media, sparking widespread debate and concern in Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad district. The incident is reported to have taken place in the Sahukunj Colony of the Bilari area and has since become a flashpoint for communal and social discussions online.

In the viral video, a few girls wearing burqas are seen surrounding a girl dressed in simple clothes and allegedly pressuring her to wear a burqa. When the girl resists, they are heard telling her that it would “look good” on her. At one point, the girl is heard asking if anyone else is coming, to which the others respond in the negative, continuing to persuade her. The girl eventually moves away when another burqa-clad woman approaches the spot.

The video, which is said to have been recorded on December 20, 2025, has rapidly circulated across social media platforms, drawing sharp reactions from various quarters. While some users have alleged religious coercion, others have called for restraint until the facts are fully established.

Following the uproar, the management of the tuition or coaching centre allegedly linked to the students in the video issued a clarification. The administration claimed that the video does not depict any attempt to force religious attire on anyone and instead shows a disagreement or altercation between students. They denied allegations of coercion and urged the public not to draw conclusions based on incomplete information.

Moradabad police have taken cognisance of the viral video and launched an investigation to ascertain the facts. Officials said efforts are underway to identify the individuals seen in the video and verify the circumstances under which it was recorded. Police have also warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found attempting to disturb communal harmony.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vinay Kumar Bilari confirmed that residents of Sahukunj Colony met officials at the tehsil office and submitted a complaint regarding the functioning of a training centre in the area. Locals reportedly raised concerns over the behaviour of students and alleged that the incident may have been given a communal colour.

Authorities stressed that the investigation is ongoing and appealed to the public to maintain peace and refrain from sharing unverified or inflammatory content. The case has also reignited discussions on the regulation of private coaching centres operating in residential localities and the need for closer monitoring to prevent such controversies.