Statements and actions by political leaders and government officials

Amethi Dalit Family Murdered; Accused Chandan Verma Arrested After Police Encounter

Oct 5, 2024, 01:05 AM

Four members of a Dalit family, including a teacher and his wife, were murdered in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, after the suspect had reportedly warned 'five will die.' The victims were Sunil Kumar, his wife Poonam, and their two children. The bodies were transported to their ancestral village in Raebareli, amidst tight security and a large gathering of villagers and police. The main accused, Chandan Verma, was arrested and injured during a police encounter as he attempted to escape. Police officials claim the murders were the result of an illicit relationship between Verma and Poonam, with Verma confessing to the affair that had been ongoing for 1.5 years. The family had previously filed complaints against Verma under the SC/ST Act and for eve-teasing. Poonam's mother expressed fears for her younger son Bhanu Pratap's safety, stating that Verma might target him next. Political leaders, including Amethi MP Kishori Lal Sharma, have condemned the crime and criticized law enforcement for negligence. MLA Mayankeshwar Sharan Singh stated that arresting the accused is the top priority and that they will be caught soon. Sharma facilitated a phone call between Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and a family member of the deceased. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met with the relatives of the victims and has been monitoring the situation closely.