In a shocking incident of alleged honour-based violence, the Auraiya police in Kanpur have registered a case against four individuals for holding a newly-wed man captive and subjecting him to severe public humiliation. The police have already arrested three of the accused in connection with the brutal episode that has sent shockwaves through the region.
The Gruesome Assault in Rampur Kunwar Village
The disturbing event unfolded on December 5 in Rampur Kunwar village, falling under the Phaphund police station area. According to the police complaint, the accused persons allegedly tied the victim to a tree, physically assaulted him, and then forced him to wear a garland made of shoes in front of the gathered villagers. The entire ordeal lasted for approximately an hour, during which the perpetrators recorded videos of the incident.
The victim, a resident of a village in neighbouring Etawah who assists his father with farming, had married a woman of his choice on November 29. "My son had an affair with a girl. We had no objection, but the girl's family opposed the relation," the victim's father stated. Defying the opposition, the couple proceeded with their marriage.
Police Action After Video Surfaces on Social Media
The case gained momentum only after a video of the horrific humiliation surfaced on social media platforms on December 17. Following the circulation of the video, the victim formally lodged a complaint with the police. In his statement, the victim asserted that he was beaten publicly because he "married as per his will."
The victim's father provided a detailed sequence of events. He explained that on December 5, the couple travelled by motorcycle to the woman's maternal grandfather, Hetram's, house. Upon their return journey, the girl's grandfather's family intercepted them, held the groom captive, and carried out the assault. The police were alerted and arrived at the scene, eventually freeing the man. However, the father alleged that no immediate action was taken against the accused based on the initial complaint, which emboldened them to circulate the video online.
Arrests Made and Official Statement
Taking cognizance of the viral video and the formal complaint, the police have now swung into action. Circle Officer of Ajitmal, Srishti Mishra, confirmed the developments. "A case has been registered on the complaint of the victim and three individuals have been arrested," stated Mishra. The arrested accused have been identified as Deepu alias Deependra, Premchandra, and Hashim, all from Rampur Kunwar village. A search is underway for the remaining accused.
This incident highlights the persistent social evils related to honour and self-choice marriages in certain pockets. The police action, prompted by public outrage due to the viral video, underscores the role of social media in bringing such crimes to light and ensuring accountability.
