Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), April 13: In a shocking incident, a 30-year-old Dalit youth named Devi Shankar was allegedly burnt alive in a wheat field in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj. Former UP Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav and other opposition leaders have condemned the incident, calling it a horrific crime by dominant forces. The incident occurred a day before Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti 2025.
Burnt Body Found In Garden
The incident occurred in Isaota village, Yamunanagar area which falls under the Karchana police station. On the morning of Sunday (April 13), villagers spotted a half-burnt body in a garden near the village. The victim was identified by his father Ashok Kumar who claimed the body was of his son Devi Shankar.
Police reached the spot and initiated an investigation into the matter. However, the villagers and family members of the deceased refused to allow the dead body to be moved until the accused were arrested.
Family Alleges Murder
Ashok Kumar alleged that on Saturday night, some villagers took Devi Shankar to their field to tie up harvested wheat bundles. He claims that his son was murdered there and then set on fire to destroy evidence.
Following this complaint, police registered a murder case against eight individuals. The accused include Dilip Singh (alias Chottan), Ajay Singh, Vinay Singh, Manoj Singh, Sonu Singh, Shekhar, Mohit, and one unknown person.
Police Action and Arrests
Six of the accused have been arrested, while the main accused, Dilip alias Chottan, is absconding. Police are searching for the main accused and have formed a team to nab him. A large police force has been deployed in the village to maintain peace.
Details About the Victim
Devi Shankar belonged to a Dalit community. He was the only son of his parents and worked as a daily-wage labourer. He had three children, a daughter Kajal and two sons Suraj and Akash. His wife had passed away earlier.
Tensions in the Village
The murder has caused widespread anger and tension in the village. As news of the incident spread, Dalit leaders and activists began gathering in the area. Protesters submitted a memorandum to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) demanding security for the victim’s family, financial compensation, a government house and strict action against the accused.
Akhilesh Yadav Reacts
Akhilesh Yadav said that by killing a Dalit youth in such a brutal manner just before Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti, some powerful people were trying to send a message of fear.
He criticised the government, saying, "If there’s a word worse than 'shameful', it should be used for this act. Let’s see if those in power have the courage to send bulldozers to the homes of these criminals, or if they’ll stay silent."
