A serious allegation of custodial assault and caste-based abuse has emerged from Sidhi, where a Dalit woman has accused a police constable and three others of brutally attacking her during an Ambedkar Jayanti event.
The incident, reported on April 14, has triggered public outrage and renewed concerns about police conduct and caste sensitivity in the region.
What the complainant alleges
The victim, identified as Pankali Saket, said she had gone to the Amaliya police station area to take part in an Ambedkar Jayanti rally when she was allegedly surrounded and attacked.
According to her complaint, a police reservist and three men in civilian clothes assaulted her with sticks, causing injuries to her head, back, hands, and legs. She also alleged that casteist slurs were used during the attack.
If proven, the allegations would fall under provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
Medical and procedural concerns
The woman further alleged that she did not receive proper treatment at a local hospital and had to purchase medicines herself despite visible injuries. She reported symptoms including dizziness and vomiting following the assault.
A written complaint has been submitted to the Superintendent of Police in Sidhi, along with photographs of her injuries.
Names of accused and investigation status
One of the accused has been named as Saurabh Shukla, while the identity of another person remains unknown. The woman has also alleged involvement of a police personnel, identified as Abhishek.
As of now, police authorities have not issued an official response or confirmed the registration of an FIR, which has added to public concern.
Political and social reactions
The case has gone viral on social media, drawing criticism from activists and political leaders.
Sunil Asteya of the Azad Samaj Party questioned the state government, pointing out the contradiction between welfare schemes for women and alleged violence against Dalit women.
He has demanded strict action under the SC/ST Act and warned of protests if no action is taken.
