Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh: A 40-year-old Dalit man was allegedly lynched by villagers in Rae Bareli district after being mistaken for a thief during a night vigil sparked by rumours of drone-led surveillance for robberies. Police have arrested five accused and suspended three personnel for negligence.
The incident took place late Wednesday near the Jamunapur crossing under the Unchahar police station area. Villagers, reportedly anxious due to ongoing theft rumours, confronted the victim, identified as Hariom from Fatehpur district. When he failed to answer their questions, the mob allegedly beat him brutally and later abandoned him near Ishwardaspur railway station in critical condition. His body was discovered the next morning with multiple injuries and torn clothes.
Police confirmed that Hariom died at the spot before help could arrive. Additional Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Sinha said a murder case has been registered, and five people have been taken into custody, while efforts are underway to nab others involved. Sub-Inspector Kamal Yadav and constables Pradeep Kumar and Abhishek Kumar have been suspended for alleged dereliction of duty.
Sinha clarified that the accused belong to different communities, including Dalit and backward castes, urging residents not to give the crime a caste angle. He appealed for calm and assured strict action against the culprits.
Meanwhile, the Congress slammed the Uttar Pradesh government, alleging a complete breakdown of law and order. The party demanded Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s resignation, an SIT probe, ₹1 crore compensation for the victim’s family, and a government job for one of its members.
