Overview

• Hariom, who was walking to his in-laws’ home in the Unchahar area, was beaten with sticks and belts after villagers alleged he was part of a theft gang using drones.
• Five suspects have been jailed as part of the FIR, police say more accused are being traced, and items linked to the assault were recovered during the probe.
• Multiple local police personnel have been disciplined for negligence, with the Unchahar SHO removed from his post as the force faces scrutiny over its response.
• A viral video of the assault shows the victim faintly saying “Rahul Gandhi,” which Congress leaders cited while condemning the killing and alleging political overtones.
• Rahul Gandhi spoke to the victim’s family, and Congress demanded an SIT probe, compensation and a government job for a family member, as fresh vigilante attacks tied to ‘drone thief’ panic were reported in the district with additional arrests.