Hindu Dalit Woman’s Murder Sparks Outrage [Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh]

(Reported as seen)

Violence erupted in a village in Bareilly district after a Muslim man, Saddam Ali, eloped with his Hindu neighbor, leading to the suspension of three police officers for their alleged inaction and delayed response. The incident has caused significant unrest in the community, resulting in vandalism and arson.

A 24-year-old Muslim man, Saddam Ali, allegedly had a romantic relationship with his 20-year-old Hindu neighbor. Last week, Ali eloped with the girl, sparking outrage in the predominantly Hindu village of Shivnagar. The girl’s family filed a missing person complaint at the Sirauli police station on July 29, 2024, accusing Ali of kidnapping.

Following the elopement, villagers and the girl’s family vandalized and set fire to Ali’s house and grocery shop. They also attacked a police jeep, accusing the police of delaying Ali’s arrest. The violence erupted on Friday night (August 2, 2024).

After an investigation, the police located Ali and the girl in Sirauli on August 1, 2024, and brought them back. The girl was handed over to her family, while Ali was taken into custody for questioning.

The incident led to the suspension of the Station House Officer (SHO) Love Sirohi, Sub-Inspector (SI) Satveer Singh, and a constable for their alleged inaction. A case has been registered against 62 people, including the girl’s family members, for their involvement in the violence. One person has been detained for arson, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects.

To prevent further violence, heavy police deployment has been made in the village. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anurag Arya confirmed the deployment and the suspensions, stating that the situation is under control.

The village, with a 10% minority population, primarily relies on agriculture. Saddam Ali and the girl had studied together and were reportedly in a relationship for two years before eloping. The police are ensuring the safety and order in the village amid ongoing tensions between the communities.

This case highlights the sensitive nature of interfaith relationships in certain regions and the potential for communal unrest. The incident has raised concerns about police responsiveness and the need for timely action to prevent such violent outbreaks.