A horrific crime in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut has sent shockwaves across the state, highlighting grave concerns over women's safety and social justice. A 50-year-old Dalit woman was brutally murdered on Thursday when she tried to protect her 20-year-old daughter from being abducted by two men. The assailants, identified as Paras Som and Sunil Kumar, remain at large as a massive police operation unfolds.
The Chilling Sequence of Events
The victim, whose family survives on daily wage labour, was on a walk with her daughter when the accused, Paras Som (23) and Sunil Kumar (25), allegedly attempted to drag the young woman away. In a courageous act of maternal protection, the mother stepped between her daughter and the attackers. For this, she paid with her life. She was struck on the head with a sharp weapon and later succumbed to her injuries in a local hospital. The attackers fled the scene with her daughter.
Before her death, the woman was conscious enough to narrate the attack to authorities. She stated that Paras had misbehaved with her daughter, and when she protested, he began beating and abusing her before striking her head and kidnapping her daughter.
Massive Police Manhunt and Investigation
Meerut's Senior Superintendent of Police, Vipin Tada, informed that the investigation has been intensified. The number of investigation teams has been doubled from five to ten in a bid to trace the accused and rescue the abducted woman. An FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for murder and abduction, along with provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
"Questioning is underway of those close to the accused. Based on the clues, teams have also been sent to Haryana and Delhi," SSP Tada said. Meerut Zone Additional Director General of Police, Bhanu Bhaskar, assured the family that every possible measure is being taken to recover their daughter and ensure justice.
Political Outrage and Family's Anguish
The incident triggered immediate and strong condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum. BSP chief Mayawati termed the incident "extremely tragic, shameful and concerning," urging the government to take strict action. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP government, alleging its patronage of criminals had led to a complete failure of administration.
The victim's husband initially refused to allow her cremation until their daughter was found. After intense negotiations with senior administrative and police officials, the family consented. The final rites were conducted under heavy security in the presence of the District Magistrate, SSP, DIG, and ADG.
In a significant relief measure, District Magistrate VK Singh announced that the family has been granted Rs 10 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund and will receive an additional Rs 12 lakh by the time the chargesheet is filed in court, totalling Rs 22 lakh in assistance.
The case has also brought community dynamics to the fore, as the victims and accused belong to different communities. Former MLA Sangeet Som urged the public to view the incident purely as a crime, demanding a punishment that would be remembered for generations.
As the police hunt continues for Paras Som, a medical assistant, and Sunil Kumar, the nation watches, hoping for the safe return of the young woman and swift justice for a mother's ultimate sacrifice.
