Daijiworld Media Network - Raebareli
Raebareli, Oct 6: A tragic case of mob violence has shaken Uttar Pradesh’s Raebareli district, where a Dalit man, Hariom, was brutally beaten to death after being falsely accused of theft. The incident has triggered widespread condemnation and reignited debates over the safety of marginalised communities in the state.
Hariom, who was on his way to his in-laws’ house in Dandepur Jamunapur, was reportedly attacked by a group of villagers who suspected him of stealing a drone. Eyewitnesses claim he was assaulted with sticks and belts, leading to his death on the spot.
Local police have arrested five individuals in connection with the lynching. Raebareli Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sanjeev Kumar Sinha confirmed that a case has been registered and more arrests are likely.
“An FIR was filed under the Unchahar police station. So far, five people have been jailed. The search is ongoing for other suspects. We are committed to bringing all responsible to justice,” ASP Sinha stated.
As the investigation progresses, three police personnel, including a sub-inspector, have been suspended for dereliction of duty.
The victim’s family is demanding swift and severe punishment. Hariom’s wife, Pinki, who is now left to raise their four-year-old daughter alone, said, “They beat my husband to death without any proof. I want the culprits punished exactly the way he was killed. I want justice.”
Hariom’s father echoed the sentiment, demanding both the death penalty for those involved and the controversial “bulldozer action” — a term used for the demolition of homes of accused criminals. “We were informed on October 2. My son was murdered. His killers should face capital punishment, and their homes must be razed,” he said.
The lynching has sparked a strong political backlash, with opposition leaders accusing the BJP-led government of failing to protect Dalits and marginalised communities. Critics have pointed to a growing pattern of mob justice and caste-based violence in the state.
In response, deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak condemned the incident. “This is a deeply tragic case. I assure that the strictest possible action will be taken against all those found guilty. If there is evidence of police negligence, those officers will also face consequences,” he told reporters.
As the case continues to unfold, it remains a chilling reminder of the perils of mob justice and the urgent need for accountability — both from civilians and those tasked with upholding the law.