A man has been arrested and three others have been booked in Betul, Madhya Pradesh, after a viral video emerged showing them brutally beating a tribal youth. The shocking clip, which has recently surfaced despite being three months old, depicts the victim stripped naked, hanging upside down, and being subjected to a vicious assault.
The incident took place on November 15, 2021, when the victim, identified as Aashish, was lured to Betul city by one of the accused on suspicion of cow smuggling. Once there, Aashish was taken to a room where six individuals, believed to be associated with right-wing organizations, stripped him naked and hung him upside down. They proceeded to beat him with a belt, slippers, and sticks.
Reports indicate that the accused had suspected Aashish of being involved in cow smuggling, leading to this violent act. Despite the incident occurring several months ago, the victim refrained from reporting the crime due to fear of the culprits’ criminal backgrounds.
The video of the assault went viral on social media, prompting Aashish’s family to accompany him to the Kotwali police station to file a complaint. In response, the police registered a First Information Report against three identified individuals and an additional three individuals involved in the incident.
Betul Superintendent of Police, Siddharth Choudhary, disclosed that there were five to six perpetrators involved in the brutal assault. One arrest has been made, and efforts are underway to locate and apprehend the remaining suspects.
This distressing incident follows another recent video from Betul, showing violence against tribals. In the previous incident, a youth was brutally beaten and forced to sit in a degrading manner by a group of individuals, including a Bajrang Dal activist.
As investigations continue to unfold, authorities are committed to bringing all the perpetrators involved in these acts of violence to justice. The tribal community of Betul and activists have expressed outrage over these incidents, demanding stricter actions against those responsible for the horrific treatment of tribal youths.
It is crucial to recognize the gravity of such incidents and address the deep-rooted prejudices and violence that affect marginalized communities. The Madhya Pradesh government and law enforcement agencies must work together to ensure the safety and security of all individuals, regardless of their background, and prevent further instances of intolerance and brutality.
Such incidents of violence against tribal youths highlight the urgent need for societal introspection and awareness campaigns to promote inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for all. Only through collective efforts can we create a society that values the dignity and rights of every individual, irrespective of their ethnicity or socioeconomic status.
