Dalit Teen Beaten to Death Over Friendship in Uttarakhand

The victim, identified as Ketan, reportedly lost his life after being brutally assaulted by members of the girl's family. Another youth, who accompanied him, was also injured in the attack and is currently receiving treatment.

Teen Allegedly Lured to Village Before Attack

According to reports, Ketan received a call from the girl around 11 PM on Sunday. He then went to Kholgarh village along with his friend, Diwakar Dimri.

Police said that after reaching the village, both youths were allegedly locked inside a room by members of the girl's family and beaten with sticks.

The next morning, Ketan's father, Dhanpal Lal, reportedly received a call from the girl's father asking him to take his son home.

When he reached the location, he found Ketan seriously injured and covered in blood. The teenager was immediately rushed to a hospital, but doctors were unable to save him.

Murder Case Registered, One Detained

Following the incident, police registered a case of murder along with provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Tehri Garhwal Senior Superintendent of Police Shweta Choubey confirmed that a case has been filed under murder charges and Section 3(2)(v) of the SC/ST Act.

Police have also detained one accused, identified as Yashveer Singh Panwar, for questioning. Further investigation is currently underway.

Meanwhile, Ketan's friend Diwakar Dimri, who was injured during the assault, has been admitted to the district hospital in Baurari.

Incident Triggers Public Outrage

The tragic death has triggered anger among local residents and renewed discussions around caste-based violence and discrimination in society.

Authorities are recording statements from witnesses and family members as part of the ongoing investigation.

Similar Incidents Reported Earlier

The incident comes amid several recent cases involving violence against Dalits.

In October 2025, a Dalit teenager in Greater Noida allegedly died after being attacked by upper-caste men on his birthday.

In another case from Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh, a 38-year-old Dalit man was beaten to death after being mistakenly suspected of theft.

More recently, in May 2026, a 17-year-old girl was allegedly abducted and gang-raped by three accused in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh district.

The latest case from Uttarakhand has once again raised serious concerns about caste-related violence and the need for stronger protection of vulnerable communities.