Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 4: A 36-year-old businessman from East Delhi succumbed to his injuries after being brutally assaulted during a late-night altercation in Connaught Place earlier this month, once again triggering concerns over public safety in the capital’s busiest commercial hub.
The victim, Shivam Gupta, had gone to Connaught Place near the Rajiv Chowk metro station on the night of January 2 to attend a party with a friend. Police said an argument broke out when Shivam asked a group of delivery partners for drinking water. The disagreement quickly escalated, with around three individuals allegedly attacking him.
According to police, the assailants struck Shivam repeatedly with helmets and then kicked and punched him, leaving him unconscious and bleeding on the road. A PCR call was received around 1.30 am on January 3 reporting an unconscious man lying in a pool of blood. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors found multiple severe head injuries and a haematoma. Due to his critical condition, Shivam was unable to give a statement.
Meanwhile, his family grew anxious when he did not return home and could not be contacted. Hours later, they were informed by police that he had been hospitalised, leaving them shocked and distressed.
On January 4, Shivam was referred to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and underwent surgery the following day. Doctors had described the next 36 to 72 hours as critical. Although his condition showed brief improvement, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries on January 19 after battling for life for several days.
Police officials said the crime scene was inspected, bloodstained evidence collected and CCTV footage examined. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, with authorities indicating that additional charges may be added. Two suspects have been arrested so far, while efforts are on to trace others allegedly involved.
The victim’s family alleged that Shivam was attacked using a helmet as a weapon. “Our son was killed brutally. We want strict action against those responsible so that no other family has to go through this pain,” a family member said.
The incident has once again put the spotlight on security arrangements in crowded areas like Connaught Place during late-night hours, with citizens and activists calling for stronger policing and enhanced surveillance to prevent such tragedies.