A 38-year-old Dalit man was beaten to death by a mob in Raebareli after being accused of stealing a drone, in an incident that has triggered widespread anger and political reactions.
The victim, identified as Hariom from Fatehpur district, was allegedly assaulted for hours by villagers who suspected him of theft. His body was later found near a railway track in the Unchahar area with severe injuries.
Videos Reveal Chilling Assault
Three disturbing videos of the incident have surfaced. The first showed Hariom’s body lying near the railway track. The second captured villagers questioning and beating him. The third video, which emerged later, showed the mob continuing the assault as the victim cried in pain.
In the video, Hariom can be heard calling out the name of Rahul Gandhi while being beaten. A voice from the crowd responds, “Everyone here is Baba’s people,” before the assault continues.
The attackers allegedly hit him repeatedly with sticks and belts, including on his thighs and private parts, ignoring his pleas for mercy.
Tied, Stripped and Dumped Near Track
According to the police investigation, Hariom was stopped by villagers on the night of October 1 while walking towards Ishwardaspur. Suspecting him of theft, they allegedly stripped him partially, tied his hands with his shirt, and assaulted him.
Even after he became semi conscious, the mob reportedly continued beating him near a canal, tying him to a pole before dumping him near the railway line.
He later died from the injuries.
Family Alleges Brutality, Seeks Justice
Hariom’s wife Pinky said he was mentally unwell and had come to meet her in Unchahar, where she works. She demanded strict punishment for those responsible.
“My husband was beaten to death brutally. The accused should get the same punishment,” she said.
The victim’s sister claimed that the killing was not accidental but a planned act.
Police Action and Arrests
Police have registered a case against 12 accused in connection with the lynching. So far, five persons have been arrested, including Vaibhav Singh, Vipin Maurya, Vijay Kumar, Sahdev and Suresh Kumar.
A senior police officer confirmed the arrests and said efforts are ongoing to identify and detain others involved.
Following the incident, action was also taken against police officials. The station in charge of Unchahar was transferred, and three policemen were suspended for alleged negligence.
Political Reactions Intensify
The incident has drawn sharp political reactions, with the Congress party criticising the Uttar Pradesh government over law and order.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spoke to the victim’s family and assured them of support.
“Do not worry, the Congress family is with you,” he told the victim’s relatives, according to family members.
State Congress leaders also met the family and accused the government of failing to prevent crimes against Dalits.
