Dalit girl death: Witnesses fear attack, seek protection
Bhopal: Day after the Supreme Court rejected the plea of MP govt and ordered a CBI investigation into the controversial death of Dalit girl, Anjana, 20, in Barodia Naunagir village of Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district, fresh concerns emerged over the safety of witnesses. A key petitioner and brother of the deceased Dalit girl, sought police protection claiming that his elderly parents reportedly left their home for an undisclosed location. A bench of Justice M M Sundresh and Justice N K Singh on Wednesday rejected the investigation theory of the MP Police and ordered a CBI probe in the case. Vishnu Ahirwar, nephew of murdered witness Rajendra Ahirwar and a co-petitioner in the SC case, wrote to the director general of police (DGP), MP, seeking security for himself and his mother, citing threats and intimidation linked to the case. He told TOI that he requires ‘immediate security arrangements’. “Rajendra’s parents have not been seen since yesterday. I am scared too. My applications for security to DGP and other officers remain unattended” Vishnu said. The case relates to a sexual assault case filed by the survivor and her kin dating to 2019 against some influential people in the region. When the complainants refused to bow to pressure, her brother Nitin alias Lalu was assaulted on June 24, 2023 leading to his death. Rajendra Ahirwar, uncle of Nitin was a witness to the killing. Anjana and her family meanwhile moved the police including SP, IG and director general of police demanding a fair probe into the deaths and feared for their lives. The witness Rajendra Ahirwar died in a suspicious condition after an assault a year later in June 2024 while he was returning to Sagar. A day later while Anjana was accompanying the body of Rajendra she died under mysterious circumstances after falling off the hearse. Her brother Vishnu and family have since been demanding a fair probe into the deaths, alleging that influential people were behind the murders. In the application, Vishnu told the DGP that he fears for the lives of himself, his mother and other family members, alleging that they could be attacked or killed like his brother Nitin alias Lalu, his relative Rajendra Ahirwar and his sister Anjana. He requested that security be provided to him and his family and that legal action be initiated against those allegedly threatening witnesses. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Karnataka Shocker: Dalit Youth Beaten to Death in Savalagi for Allegedly Pelting a Stone
Savalagi: A shocking incident has come to light from Savalagi village in Bagalkote district’s Jamkhandi taluk. On Wednesday night, a Dalit youth was brutally beaten to death, all because he was accused of throwing a small stone during a school function. The victim has been identified as 19-year-old Sudeep Basappa Pange. Police have filed a murder case against Raju Bhimappa Mali, Vijay Ramachandra Savalagi, and Mallikarjuna Ningappa Mali. All three accused have been arrested. What Exactly Happened? The Government Kannada Girls’ School was holding its annual day celebrations, and children were performing on stage. While the villagers were watching the programme, someone from a group of youths sitting on the roof of the panchayat building threw a small pebble at the crowd below. This angered the accused. Instead of finding out who actually threw the stone, they cornered Sudeep. They started a fight with him, saying, “You threw the stone!” They then hurled casteist slurs at him, used abusive language, and beat him up mercilessly. Sudeep was seriously injured in the attack. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Jamkhandi, but sadly, he passed away during treatment. A complaint has been registered at the Savalagi police station. Courtesy : Asianet News Note: This news is originally published on https:/asianetnews.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Dalit Gambit’ in Lucknow Today! Congress Unveils Major Strategy with 15,000 Workers at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan on Kanshi Ram’s Birth Anniversary
Lucknow, Amrit Vichar: With the rumblings of the upcoming assembly elections growing louder, the Congress party has initiated a concerted effort to woo the Dalit community. As part of this initiative, senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, will address an event organized on Friday to mark the birth anniversary of BSP founder Kanshi Ram, in a bid to bring the Dalit vote bank into the Congress fold. While the BSP asserts that it holds the primary claim to Dalit votes, leaders from the Samajwadi Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party are also actively engaged—each employing their own distinct strategies—to win over the Dalit electorate. Joining this fray, the Congress party has now also entered the arena. The birth anniversary of BSP founder Kanshi Ram falls on March 15; however, in a strategic move to gain the upper hand, the Congress has announced that it will celebrate his birth anniversary on Friday, March 13. The party is observing this occasion as ‘Social Transformation Day’ (Samajik Parivartan Diwas). The event is scheduled to take place at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, located in the state capital, Lucknow. Congress spokesperson Anshu Awasthi stated that Rahul Gandhi is expected to arrive in Lucknow by air at 2:00 PM on Friday. Approximately 15,000 party workers from across the state are expected to attend the event. Prominent leaders—including State In-charge and National General Secretary Avinash Pandey, State President Ajay Rai, National Chairman of the Congress Scheduled Caste Department Dr. Rajendra Pal Gautam, and Chairman of the Backward Classes Department Dr. Anil Jaihind—are slated to address the gathering. Courtesy: Hindi News
Dalit Man Claims He Was Assaulted In Custody By Cops, Dies Later At Hospital
A document detailing the alleged torture of a 26-year-old Dalit man in police custody in Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga district has come under sharp focus after it was presented before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court. Akash, a 26-year-old Dalit, who claimed he was brutally assaulted in police custody in SivagangaChennai: A document detailing the alleged torture of a 26-year-old Dalit man in police custody in Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga district has come under sharp focus after it was presented before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court. The document – a remand order recorded by a judicial magistrate based on the victim’s statement – has now effectively become a dying declaration, as the man later died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Madurai. The victim, identified as Aakash, had described in detail the alleged torture he faced in police custody. According to the statement recorded by the magistrate, Aakash alleged that he was blindfolded and brutally assaulted by police personnel after being taken into custody. He claimed that officers placed stones below and above his right leg, covered it with a wet gunny bag and repeatedly beat it with an iron rod. The assault, he said, broke his leg and caused severe bleeding. Aakash further alleged that police threatened him and instructed him to tell doctors at the Manamadurai Government Hospital that he had sustained the injuries after falling from the Melapasalai bridge. In his statement, he also told the magistrate that around 10 cops in plain clothes first picked him up along with his co-accused, Guna, on the evening of March 6. Later that evening, four uniformed policemen took them away, he said, adding that he was placed in a separate vehicle and blindfolded. Human rights defender Henri Tiphagne, Executive Director of People’s Watch, told NDTV that the document is a crucial piece of evidence. “This is the first document that establishes police torture in Sivaganga,” Mr Tiphagne said, adding that although the case has been transferred to the CB-CID, no police personnel have been arrested or suspended so far. Aakash, a graduate, had been arrested after a clash with two men a day earlier and was charged for attempt to murder. He had sustained injuries and was initially admitted to the Sivaganga Government Hospital before being shifted to the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai, where he died the following morning. Police officials had earlier said the 26-year-old developed breathing complications while undergoing treatment. His family, however, has consistently alleged custodial torture. Tiphagne earlier told NDTV that Aakash had informed his parents in the hospital that police had placed his leg between stones and beaten him. The state had denied allegations of torture and argued he fell from a bridge. A senior police officer told NDTV that a magisterial inquiry has been ordered and that the law will take its course. On the allegations of torture, the officer said the investigation is underway and declined further comment. The incident comes less than a year after the custodial death of Ajith Kumar in the same district following alleged police torture that was reportedly caught on camera. The case is currently being probed by the CBI, with five police personnel arrested and ten officers named in the case. Meanwhile, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has also directed the registration of a case under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in connection with Aakash’s death. Reported by: J Sam Daniel Stalin Courtesy : NDTV Note: This news is originally published on https:/ndtv.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Probe MP Dalit woman’s death, SC instructs CBI
NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Wednesday directed CBI to conduct a preliminary inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 20-year-old Dalit woman in MP’s Sagar district in 2024. It rejected the plea of the state that the case was politically motivated, and said the truth must come out. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and N Kotiswar Singh said its conscience did not allow it to accept state govt’s plea, and ordered an inquiry by the central agency. The court left it to CBI to take a call on registering an FIR. SC had last year issued notice on a petition by the woman’s mother, who was seeking a CBI or SIT probe into the dea-ths of three family members. “We direct CBI to conduct a preliminary inquiry on the ci-rcumstances surrounding the death of the girl,” SC said. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Dalit family forced to flee village after caste attack in India
Dalit family in northern India says violence, threats and caste abuse forced them to consider fleeing village despite police case NEW DELHI, India (MNTV) — A Dalit family in northern India says it has been forced to consider leaving its village after an alleged caste-based attack and continuing threats from local residents, highlighting persistent violence faced by marginalized communities in rural areas. The incident took place in Karaunda village in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur district, where members of a Dalit household say a group of men entered their home and assaulted them while hurling caste slurs. According to local reports, the attackers allegedly beat the head of the family, Ramlal, with sticks and vandalized property inside the house. Dalits — historically known as “untouchables” in India’s traditional caste hierarchy — remain among the country’s most marginalized communities despite constitutional protections and laws aimed at preventing caste-based discrimination. Ramlal told police that the attack occurred on the evening of March 3 when several men from the village allegedly forced their way into the family’s home. He sustained serious head injuries during the assault and was later taken to a government hospital for treatment. The attackers also allegedly broke the door of the house, damaged a motorcycle parked in the courtyard and destroyed belongings inside the residence, according to the complaint submitted to authorities. Police responded to the incident after an emergency call and registered a case against some of the suspects. However, the family says the situation has remained tense since the assault. According to Ramlal’s complaint to district authorities, the accused individuals have continued pressuring the family to withdraw the police case and reach a compromise. The family says they were warned they would not be allowed to remain in the village if they pursued legal action. Facing what they describe as ongoing intimidation and fear of further violence, Ramlal’s family says they are now preparing to leave the village for their safety. He has asked district police officials to provide protection and assistance so the family can safely collect their belongings before relocating to another place. Local police authorities say the case is under investigation and have assured that appropriate legal action will be taken. Human rights advocates say such incidents reflect a broader pattern of caste-based intimidation in parts of rural India, where Dalit families often face pressure and threats when they attempt to pursue justice through official channels. Courtesy : Muslim Network TV Note: This news is originally published on https:/muslimnetworktv.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Dalit Family in Sidhauli Forced to Flee Home: Allegations of Assault and Threats Against Local Bullies; Appeal Made to SP
In Karaunda village, located within the Nigohi police station area of Shahjahanpur, a Dalit family has alleged that local bullies (known as *dabangs*) forcibly entered their home, physically assaulted them, hurled caste-based slurs, and damaged their property. The victimized family states that they are receiving continuous threats, compelling them to abandon their village. They have appealed to the Superintendent of Police (SP) for justice and protection. Ramlal, a resident of Karaunda, stated in a written application submitted to the Superintendent of Police that on the evening of March 3, around 7:30 PM, several local bullies forcibly barged into his home. It is alleged that the accused subjected him to caste-based verbal abuse and assaulted him using sticks and clubs. During this attack, Ramlal sustained severe head injuries and was left bleeding profusely. In addition to breaking down the front door, the accused also damaged a motorcycle parked in the courtyard and a storage chest kept inside the house. Immediately following the incident, the victim alerted the police via the ‘Dial 112’ emergency service. Upon arriving at the scene, the police arranged for Ramlal’s medical examination. He initially received treatment at the Primary Health Centre in Nigohi, followed by further treatment at the District Hospital. A case has also been registered against some of the accused individuals in connection with this matter. Ramlal alleges that since the incident occurred, the accused have been continuously pressuring him to reach a compromise. He is being threatened that if he does not agree to a settlement, he will not be allowed to continue living in the village. Terrified of the accused, Ramlal and his family are living in constant fear and are contemplating leaving the village. On Tuesday, Ramlal appealed to the Superintendent of Police, requesting that he and his family be provided with police protection. He also pleaded for arrangements to be made—under police supervision—to retrieve his household belongings from his home, so that he and his family may relocate to a safe location. In this regard, Shahjahanpur Superintendent of Police Rajesh Trivedi has assured that an investigation will be conducted and appropriate action taken. Viresh Kumar | Mishripur (Sidhauli), Courtesy : Hindi News
Dalit Woman Beaten with an Iron Rod in Maharajganj; VIDEO: Youth Attacks Over Old Feud, Victim Referred to Medical College
On Tuesday evening, in the Senani Nagar ward of the Siswa Municipality in Maharajganj, an aggressive youth severely injured a Dalit woman by beating her with an iron rod, stemming from an old personal feud. The incident was captured on CCTV footage, a video of which has now surfaced. According to reports, Punita (30)—wife of Jitendra Gautam, a resident of the Senani Nagar ward—was walking along Block Road around 4:00 PM for some work. According to eyewitnesses, an unruly youth from the same ward intercepted her on the way and began beating her with an iron rod. After the assault, the accused fled the scene, leaving the woman half-dead. Upon receiving information about the incident, police from the Kothibhar station arrived at the scene and admitted the injured woman to the Siswa Primary Health Centre (PHC). After receiving primary treatment there, and given her critical condition, she was referred to the District Hospital. Later, as her condition deteriorated further, she was transferred to a Medical College. The entire incident was captured by a nearby CCTV camera, and the resulting video is currently going viral on social media. The victim’s husband, Jitendra Gautam, currently resides in Bengaluru. Speaking over the phone, he stated that the accused youth—known for his aggressive behavior—had previously assaulted him twice over a land dispute. It is for this very reason that he has been living in Bengaluru to ensure his personal safety. According to police sources, the accused youth has been taken into custody. Regarding the matter, Dharmendra Singh stated that the police have received information about the incident. Once a formal written complaint is received from the victim’s side, a case will be registered against the accused, and further legal action will be initiated. Brijesh Kumar Gupta | Maharajganj | Courtesy : Hindi News
Killed for Saying ‘Happy Holi’: Dalit Youth Stabbed to Death in Lucknow, Family Demands ‘Death for Death’ Justice
Dalit Man Stabbed to Death in Lucknow After Wishing ‘Happy Holi’Dalit Man Stabbed to Death in Lucknow After Wishing ‘Happy Holi’Opinion column access What began as a seemingly ordinary festival greeting turned deadly in a village on the outskirts of Lucknow earlier this week, when a young Dalit man was allegedly stabbed to death following an altercation with members of an upper-caste Brahmin family. The victim, identified as Suraj Gautam, 22, was attacked in Begariya village under the Dubagga police station area on March 4 after he wished neighbours “Happy Holi,” according to police and local media reports. Witnesses and family members allege that the greeting triggered an argument with members of a Brahmin household, which escalated into violence. During the confrontation, a woman from the family allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Gautam multiple times. He was rushed to a hospital with severe injuries but later succumbed to the wounds.City & Local Guides According to reports, the dispute erupted when Gautam greeted a neighbour during Holi celebrations. Some witnesses claim the greeting angered the upper-caste family, leading to a heated exchange. During the altercation, Gautam sustained several stab wounds. Police say he was taken to a trauma centre but doctors declared him dead shortly afterwards. The exact sequence of events remains under investigation. Police Response Following a complaint filed by the victim’s family, police registered a murder case under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) along with provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Authorities said three accused persons have been arrested, and the knife allegedly used in the attack has been recovered. Police officials have not publicly confirmed the motive behind the killing, stating that the investigation is ongoing. Gautam’s mother has demanded the strictest punishment for those responsible, reportedly telling reporters that the family wants “death for death” justice for her son. Several posts circulating online claim the dispute began simply because a Dalit youth greeted members of an upper-caste family during the Holi festival. However, some of these claims remain difficult to independently verify. A broader pattern of caste violence The killing has renewed conversations about caste-based violence in India, particularly in rural areas where social hierarchies continue to influence everyday interactions.Indian sports coverage Over the decades, several incidents of violence against Dalits—ranging from individual killings to mass atrocities— keep getting national attention. While legal frameworks such as the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act exist to protect marginalised communities, implementation often remains inconsistent. Police officials say the investigation is ongoing and that further arrests may follow if additional suspects are identified. For Gautam’s family, however, the tragedy has already left an irreversible loss. Courtesy : TOP Note: This news is originally published on https:/theobserverpost.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
HC urges end to highway protest over dalit youth’s death
Madurai: The Madras high court on Tuesday asked the family of a dalit youth who died after sustaining injuries in police custody in Sivaganga district to appeal to protesters to disperse from the Manamadurai highway. The youth, Akash, 26, died on Sunday at Govt Rajaji Hospital in Madurai, triggering allegations of police torture and custodial violence. He had been apprehended by Manamadurai police near the Melapasalai flyover in connection with a machete attack on two people. Police claimed that Akash suffered severe leg fractures after he jumped from a flyover while attempting to evade arrest. Following his death, family members and local residents staged a roadblock protest on the Madurai–Rameswaram highway near the old bus stand in Manamadurai. The protest entered its third day on Tuesday, with temporary tents set up at the site. The protesters demanded action against the police personnel allegedly responsible for the youth’s death. Traffic towards Rameswaram was diverted via Sivaganga and Kamudhi due to the blockade. When the matter was mentioned before the Madras high court on Tuesday, the state submitted that the continuing blockade of the national highway was affecting the general public. Justice L Victoria Gowri orally instructed the family members of the deceased to request, through the media, that protesters disperse from the spot. On Monday, during the hearing of a petition filed by the youth’s father, A Rajeshkannan, the state had informed the court about the highway blockade and its impact on the public. Counsel for the petitioner had then submitted that he would convey a request through the family to the protesters to disperse. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights