A routine business rivalry in Moradabad’s bustling Budh Bazaar has turned into a startling controversy after CCTV footage allegedly exposed a plot to frame a local juice seller. The incident, which has now drawn police attention, highlights how professional jealousy can spiral into serious allegations affecting someone’s livelihood.
Talha, who runs a popular juice, cold drink, and coffee shop in Budh Bazaar, had built a strong customer base over time. His shop often remains crowded, especially during busy hours, as customers gather for fresh beverages and quick refreshments. According to locals, his steady business growth did not go unnoticed. A neighboring shopkeeper reportedly grew resentful of Talha’s success and the consistent rush at his store.
The situation escalated when garbage was suddenly found scattered outside Talha’s shop. Soon after, complaints were filed accusing him of spreading filth in violation of cleanliness norms under the Swachh Bharat Mission guidelines. Acting on the complaint, officials from the Moradabad Municipal Corporation issued a notice to Talha and allegedly pressured him to vacate his shop over the alleged violation.
For a small businessman, such a notice can be devastating. Losing the shop would mean losing his primary source of income. However, Talha refused to accept the allegations quietly. He approached the police and demanded that CCTV footage from the area be examined to uncover the truth.
When officers reviewed the footage, the narrative changed dramatically. The recordings reportedly showed sanitation workers taking garbage from a nearby dustbin and deliberately spreading it in front of Talha’s shop. The visuals suggested that the mess had been staged to create grounds for action against him.
The matter soon reached senior police officials. The SP City of Moradabad reportedly assured Talha that he would not face unnecessary harassment and that no unjust action would be allowed. Following the revelation, public opinion in Budh Bazaar shifted strongly in Talha’s favor. Many residents expressed anger over the alleged misuse of civic rules to target a local entrepreneur.
The episode has sparked wider discussion about the potential misuse of public initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission. Programs designed to improve civic standards should not become tools for settling personal scores. If the allegations are confirmed through investigation, the case could raise serious questions about accountability within local administrative processes.
For small traders, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and documentation. In this case, CCTV evidence played a decisive role in protecting a business owner from possible wrongful eviction.
What began as a market rivalry has now become a story of resilience. Talha’s decision to fight the allegations rather than surrender to pressure may have saved his livelihood. As the investigation continues, the case underscores a simple truth: evidence and persistence remain powerful defenses against injustice.