A three-year-old girl was found dead in an agricultural field on Sunday evening (November 1), with police alleging she was raped and strangled by a neighbour who had helped her family search for the child.
The toddler's body was hidden and showed signs of being strangled by her own pyjama trousers. The incident occurred in a village under Muskara police station in Hamirpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Alleged Luring and Search
Police allege the 30-year-old suspect lured the toddler away as she played outside her home and took her to a nearby field. The suspect reportedly attempted to conceal his involvement by leaving the area before returning to the village to participate in the search with her family.
The girl's family reportedly discovered her remains after hours of searching, which led to the neighbour being handed over to the police.
Violence Erupts
After officers moved in to remove the child's body, fights broke out. Villagers allegedly formed a blockade and attempted to prevent police from taking her for a post-mortem, Times of India reported. During the unrest, stones were thrown at police vehicles, and officials said six cars were damaged, including vehicles used by senior officers and local station staff, until reinforcements arrived and the situation was brought under control.
The suspect was reportedly arrested soon after, but the situation escalated again during his transfer. Police say he tried to break free while being taken for questioning and to assist with evidence recovery. In one account from officers, he allegedly snatched a weapon; in another, police said he produced a country-made pistol he had concealed and opened fire. Officers retaliated and shot him in the leg, police said.
Investigation and Security
He was then taken to hospital for treatment under heavy guard. Senior officers in Hamirpur said more security has been deployed in the area to prevent further violence.
Police have promised a fast-tracked investigation, with the case being handled under India's child protection and sexual offences laws.
