LUCKNOW – A Zomato delivery boy was subjected to a violent attack in the Gomti Nagar area of the city on the night of the Raksha Bandhan festival last week. The incident occurred after the delivery of 20 rotis was delayed, leading to a brutal assault by four individuals who targeted the delivery worker because of his Muslim identity.

The delivery boy, Mohammad Aslam of Maulviganj in Aminabad, received an order for 20 rotis. He informed the customer of a slight delay, explaining that he had two prior orders to complete. The customer initially requested the cancellation of the order but later disconnected the call, saying that they would wait.

Upon reaching Vinit Khand in Gomti Nagar to deliver the rotis, Aslam was called up to the customer’s residence. As he approached, he was pulled inside by a young man. Once inside, the four individuals in the house saw Aslam’s name on the Zomato app and inquired about his religion.

Aslam confirmed that he was Muslim, prompting the group to violently attack him. The attackers beat Aslam and then threw alcohol on him. They restrained him by tying his hands and feet before he managed to escape and report the incident to the Gomti Nagar police station.

Inspector Rajesh Kumar Tripathi of the Gomti Nagar Police Station confirmed that a case has been registered in connection with the assault. “We have started an investigation into the matter. Action will be taken based on the facts that come to light,” Tripathi stated.

Aslam’s account of the incident highlights a disturbing pattern of discrimination and violence against Muslim delivery workers. Such attacks have been reported before, often triggered by the delivery worker’s name or religious identity. In some cases, delivery workers have faced harassment or been denied orders solely because of their religion.

The incident has sparked outrage and calls for greater protection for delivery workers from such acts of violence and discrimination. Advocates for minority rights have condemned the attack and urged authorities to ensure that justice is served.

Aslam’s experience underscores the ongoing challenges faced by individuals in the service industry, particularly those from minority communities, who continue to face prejudice and hostility.