Meerut: The family of a Dalit woman killed in a brutal attack in Meerut has accused the Uttar Pradesh police and the ruling BJP of protecting the prime accused and weakening the case through administrative control and selective action.
Speaking outside their village, the victim’s brother alleged police protection for Paras Som, named as the main accused. He said the accused moved freely and faced no physical action despite public claims of strict policing in the state. According to him, jailing the accused served as a formality rather than justice.
The family alleged a deliberate attempt to portray the accused as a minor. They said Paras Som spoke to media while in police custody and claimed minority status, despite villagers asserting his age to be around 25 years. The family described this as a planned strategy to dilute punishment.
They also raised concerns over heavy security outside their home. Paramilitary forces guarded the house, village entry points stood blocked, and multiple CCTV cameras monitored the area. The family said these measures restricted access and limited communication rather than offering protection.
According to the family, the attack occurred on January 8 when Paras Som and his associates assaulted the woman with axes while she walked to her fields with her daughter. The woman died on the spot and her daughter was abducted.
Another family member said eyewitnesses named four attackers. Police arrested Paras Som and Sunil Som, while two others remained free. The abducted woman was rescued on January 10 and returned home after recording her statement.
Police officials said the accused had not submitted proof of minority status. Political leaders from opposition parties visited or attempted to visit the family, while access restrictions triggered protests and allegations of unequal treatment.
