A man from the Dalit community in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, was allegedly beaten to death due to his involvement in a purported illicit affair with a married woman of a different caste from the same village. The incident occurred on Monday in Jasaula village, located in the Khatauli area.
The victim, identified as Ankit Kumar, had developed a romantic relationship with the woman, who is in her 30s. On the day of the incident, Kumar was discovered in a semi-conscious state, with his hands and feet tied. He had sustained severe injuries and was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his wounds.
Subsequently, the woman’s husband and several other locals from the village were apprehended by law enforcement authorities. Ravi Shankar Mishra, the Deputy Superintendent of Police in Khatauli, confirmed that a case had been registered against unknown persons under IPC section 302 (murder) and the SC/ST Act. The body of the deceased was sent for an autopsy, and investigators are currently awaiting the results. Initial findings indicate that the crime was motivated by the alleged affair.
According to the victim’s family, a man forcibly took Kumar from their residence on Sunday night. His brother, Ankur Kumar, stated, He was subjected to continuous beatings throughout the night and was discovered with injuries covering his entire body at a nearby house on Monday. A muffler, which had been utilized as a noose, was tied around his neck.
This horrifying incident in Muzaffarnagar sheds light on the deeply embedded prejudices and societal challenges faced by individuals who attempt to defy traditional norms regarding relationships and caste boundaries. Acts of violence as a consequence of such associations are distressingly common, further highlighting the need for societal progress and education to overcome such discriminatory attitudes.
The investigation is currently ongoing, and authorities are working tirelessly to identify all those responsible for this brutal crime. The tragic death of Ankit Kumar serves as a painful reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality and respect for all individuals, regardless of caste or other societal divisions.
As the story develops further, it is vital to raise awareness and engage in thoughtful dialogue to address and eradicate the deeply rooted prejudices that continue to perpetuate violence in our society.
