A 23-year-old Dalit groom was allegedly assaulted and dragged down from a horse during his pre-wedding procession in Madhya Pradesh’s Damoh district, in an incident that has raised serious concerns over caste-based violence.
Groom Attacked During Pre-Wedding Procession
The victim, Golu Ahirwar, who is physically challenged and belongs to a Scheduled Caste community, was taking part in the traditional Rachwai ceremony on Tuesday evening in Bijori Pathak village under the Hatta police station area.
According to the family, the procession was moving through the village when a group of men from the Lodhi community allegedly blocked their path by parking a vehicle in front of the procession.
Soon after, four men identified as Vishwanath Lodhi, Bicchu, Chinnu, and Paltu Lodhi allegedly pulled the groom off the horse and began assaulting him with sticks.
“They Showed No Mercy”: Family
The groom’s mother, Vidya Ahirwar, alleged that her son was beaten brutally despite his physical condition.
“They beat him mercilessly. He is physically challenged, but they showed no mercy,” she said.
She further claimed that her daughter was also attacked while trying to protect her brother.
“They didn’t even spare my daughter. When she tried to stop them, they assaulted her too,” she added.
A video of the incident was reportedly recorded by family members and is being circulated.
Complaint Filed, Case Registered
Following the assault, the family rushed to the Hatta police station and filed a complaint.
Police confirmed that a case has been registered under multiple sections of the law, including provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Hatta police station in-charge Sudhir Kumar said, “A case has been registered under relevant sections, including the SC/ST Act. Investigation is underway.”
Security Deployed, Wedding Continues
Authorities said police personnel have been deployed in the village to prevent any further tension and to ensure that the wedding takes place peacefully.
After receiving medical treatment, the groom and his family proceeded to Budhi Semra village in neighbouring Chhatarpur district to complete the wedding rituals.
