A tragic incident in Meerut's Kapsad village has led to a massive police manhunt and political outrage after a 50-year-old Dalit woman lost her life while trying to protect her daughter from alleged abductors on Thursday. The victim, identified as Sunita Jatav, succumbed to injuries after being attacked with a sharp weapon.
Sequence of Events and Police Response
According to authorities, the incident unfolded on Thursday morning when Sunita Jatav and her 20-year-old daughter were allegedly confronted by two men in nearby fields. The accused, identified as Paras Som (23) and Sunil Kumar (25), both residents of the same village, reportedly attempted to abduct the younger woman.
When Sunita intervened to shield her daughter, Paras allegedly struck her on the head with a sugarcane sickle. The attackers then fled the scene with the daughter. Villagers alerted the family, and the injured woman was rushed to a hospital, where she later died during treatment.
Meerut SSP Vipin Tada confirmed that 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. "More than ten police teams are working across districts to apprehend the accused and ensure the girl's safe recovery. Based on clues, teams have also been sent to Haryana and Delhi," SSP Tada stated.
Family's Anguish and Administrative Action
The victim's family initially refused to perform the last rites, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused, action against their alleged illegal constructions, and the safe recovery of their missing daughter. After prolonged negotiations with senior officials, including SSP Tada, the woman was cremated late Friday evening.
District Magistrate Dr. VK Singh announced significant financial assistance for the family. A total of Rs 10 lakh has been disbursed from the Chief Minister's relief fund, with an additional Rs 12 lakh promised before the chargesheet is filed in court. Due to security concerns, the administration is also considering providing an arms license to the family and has assured them of immediate protection.
Before her death, Sunita Jatav gave a statement detailing the assault. "Paras misbehaved with my daughter. When I protested, he started beating and abusing me. He hit my head with a sharp instrument," she recounted.
Political Reactions and Law & Order
The case has triggered sharp political responses. BSP chief Mayawati urged the government to take strict action against the culprits. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticized the ruling BJP government, alleging patronage of criminals. Former Union minister Sanjeev Balyan, who visited the family, appealed for patience.
A heavy police force remains deployed in Kapsad village to maintain law and order, with the situation currently reported as peaceful. Samajwadi Party workers staged a protest at Commissary Park, demanding the girl's recovery and the arrest of the accused, which led to minor scuffles with police.
Meerut Zone ADG Bhanu Bhaskar assured the family that every possible measure is being taken to recover their daughter and bring the perpetrators to justice. The accused remain absconding as the search operation intensifies.
