What Led to the Lynching of a Dalit Man in Raebareli?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dalit man lynched in Raebareli, mistaken for a thief.
- Five arrests made in connection with the incident.
- Victim's family demands death penalty for perpetrators.
- Political uproar ensues, questioning government accountability.
- Police negligence leads to suspensions.
Raebareli, Oct 6 (NationPress) A Dalit individual was savagely lynched in Uttar Pradesh's Raebareli after being incorrectly identified as a thief, igniting widespread outrage and political turmoil across the state. Authorities have apprehended five suspects linked to this horrific act.
The victim, recognized as Hariom, was reportedly beaten to death with sticks and belts by a group of locals.
As per his family, he was en route to his in-laws' residence in Dandepur Jamunapur when a mob encircled him and began assaulting him, suspecting him of being a drone thief.
Raebareli ASP Sanjeev Kumar Sinha confirmed that a case has been registered and an investigation is currently in progress.
"A case has been filed promptly in the Unchahar police station area, and five individuals have been incarcerated concerning the case of a man who was beaten to death after being mistaken for a thief. The remaining culprits will be identified and apprehended soon, and efforts are underway to capture them," he stated.
Sinha also noted that three police officials, including a sub-inspector, have faced suspension due to negligence.
Hariom's spouse, Pinki, called for justice regarding her husband's murder. The couple leaves behind a four-year-old daughter.
"They apprehended him and beat him to death. The perpetrators should face the same fate as my husband. I seek justice from the government," she expressed to IANS.
Hariom's father also demanded the death penalty for the suspects and called for bulldozer action.
"My son was slain. We were informed on October 2. We insist that the murderers receive the death penalty and that their homes be demolished with bulldozers," he stated.
This incident has incited a considerable political backlash, with opposition parties accusing the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government of neglecting the safety of Dalits and marginalized communities.
Nonetheless, the government has pledged to take stringent action against those culpable.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, while speaking to IANS, remarked, "This is an extremely tragic incident, and I vehemently condemn it. The strictest measures will be enforced against all found guilty. Should any responsible police officials be found negligent, they will also face severe repercussions."