In yet another disturbing incident of caste-based violence in Modi’s India, a Dalit woman was brutally attacked by the husband of a village sarpanch and his associate in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district after she demanded the return of money she had paid for a government housing scheme.
The assault, which took place in broad daylight on a busy road in Manetha village, was captured in a viral video, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation across social media platforms.
The victim, identified as Shanti Ahirwar, can be seen in the video lying on the ground while her attacker, Rajkumar Sahu, forcibly holds her hands and repeatedly slaps her. The disturbing scene was witnessed by several locals, who did not intervene.
Reports suggest that Shanti had handed over Rs10,000 to Sahu, the husband of the local sarpanch, to secure a house under a government housing scheme. When no housing materialized, she asked for her money back, which led to a heated argument and the subsequent physical assault.
Despite Shanti filing a formal complaint with the local police, no action has been taken against Sahu or his associate.
The viral footage has sparked outrage across social media platforms, with users demanding the immediate arrest of Sahu and strict punishment for the perpetrators to ensure justice for Shanti.
Civil society groups and human rights activists have condemned the attack, highlighting concerns over the safety of marginalized women and the abuse of power by local officials.
