28 August 2023, Mumbai: In a deeply disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through Madhya Pradesh, a Dalit youth lost his life in a brutal mob attack, while his mother was subjected to public humiliation by a large group of assailants. The incident occurred in Sagar district on Sunday, stemming from a sexual harassment case filed by the victim’s sister in 2019. Tragically, the young man’s sister also faced violence when she tried to protect her family from the aggressive mob.
Assault leads to death
According to Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Lokesh Kumar, the victim had been embroiled in an ongoing feud related to past conflicts within the jurisdiction of the Khurai police station. The confrontation escalated into a severe assault, resulting in the young man’s death after being taken to the hospital.
Victim’s mother Stripped Naked by mob
Lokesh Kumar revealed that charges of murder have been filed against nine individuals, while three will face charges under the stringent provisions of the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribes Act. Eight individuals have already been arrested in connection with the incident. The victim’s sister revealed that she had been pressured to withdraw her case, which ultimately led to the brutal attack on her family. The assailants subjected the victim to merciless beatings, leading to his untimely demise. The victim’s mother also recounted the traumatic ordeal of being stripped naked by the mob and then later provided with a towel by the police.
Mods Forcibly entered in House
The attackers didn’t stop at physical violence but also wreaked havoc on the victim’s residence, leaving behind a trail of destruction. The mob then targeted another house in search of the victim’s two other sons. The victim’s aunt added that the mob forcibly entered her home, causing fear and intimidation among her family members.
The support of District Collector
As the village remains on edge, with a heavy police presence, the victim’s family was reassured of assistance through government initiatives and informed about the arrests. The district collector assured them of support as they performed the final rites for their lost family member.
Opposition Slams Ruling Party
The incident has ignited a political firestorm in Madhya Pradesh, particularly with elections on the horizon. Opposition parties, including the Congress and Mayawati’s Bahujan Samaj Party, have criticized the ruling BJP government’s response to the incident. The ruling party, however, claims to have taken swift action and accuses Congress of selective outrage.
BSP chief Mayawati highlighted the irony of the situation, referencing the recent foundation stone laying by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the memorial of Saint Guru Ravidas. She noted the apparent contrast between the celebratory event and the atrocities against Guru Ravidas’s devotees in the same area.
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge decried the continued oppression faced by Dalits and tribals in Madhya Pradesh, a state gearing up for elections. He criticized the BJP-led government for allegedly fostering an environment conducive to such atrocities.
Amidst these allegations and counter-accusations, the tragic incident underscores the need for swift justice, accountability, and a deeper examination of societal issues that perpetuate such violence.