A joyous wedding celebration in northern India descended into nightmare this week after a six-year-old girl was allegedly murdered by her own aunt, who reportedly confessed to a shocking series of child killings motivated by jealousy.
A Celebration Turns to Tragedy
The incident occurred on Monday in Panipat, where the victim, Vidhi, had travelled with her parents, her 10-month-old brother, and her grandmother, Omwati, for a family ceremony. According to local reports, the woman accused of the crime, named locally as Poonam, is said to have drowned her young niece in a tub of water.
The horror unfolded when Vidhi was reported missing, prompting a frantic search by her family. After an hour, her grandmother made the devastating discovery. Omwati found Vidhi's body in a nearby storeroom, with her head submerged and her feet on the floor.
The child was rushed to NC Medical College but could not be saved. What began as a day of happiness had become a scene of unimaginable grief.
Chilling Confession of a 'Psychopath'
Panipat Superintendent of Police Bhupender Singh told media that the accused appears to be a psychopath. He stated her motive was a warped belief that no child in her family should be more beautiful than her.
In a deeply disturbing twist, Poonam allegedly confessed to killing three other children. The victims reportedly include another niece, her own son, and a young girl in the nearby area of Siwah in August of this year. Police reports indicate the other children also died by drowning.
The woman is currently being held in custody, though formal charges are yet to be filed.
A Pattern of Violence Emerges
This case has sent shockwaves through the local community and highlights a terrifying pattern of alleged violence. The accused's purported confessions suggest a series of premeditated acts spanning different locations and times.
Local media outlet India Today reported the superintendent's characterisation of the suspect, underscoring the severity of the allegations. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to verify the full extent of her alleged crimes.
This tragedy follows other recent wedding disasters, including the death of a groom from a heart attack while dancing at his reception, a reminder of how swiftly joy can turn to sorrow.
