A woman in Faridabad has been arrested for allegedly drowning her seventh daughter in a drain, citing poverty as the reason for her actions. The incident came to light when locals heard the infant's cries and alerted police.
Details of the Incident
The accused, identified as 35-year-old Shanti Devi, reportedly gave birth to her seventh daughter at home on Monday night. Shortly after, she allegedly took the newborn to a nearby drain and drowned her. Police were notified by neighbors who heard the baby's cries and found the body in the drain.
Police Investigation
Shanti Devi was taken into custody and confessed to the crime, stating that she could not afford to raise another child. She has been charged with murder and child neglect. The police are investigating whether her husband was involved or aware of the act.
The woman and her family live in a slum area of Faridabad, and neighbors described them as extremely poor. The couple already had six daughters, and the husband works as a daily wage laborer.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and women's rights activists, who condemn the act but also highlight the desperate circumstances of the family. Many have called for better support systems for poor families with multiple children.
Authorities have stated that the woman will undergo a medical examination and psychological evaluation. The case has also prompted discussions about the need for stricter enforcement of laws against female infanticide and better access to family planning resources.
Legal Proceedings
The accused has been remanded to judicial custody and will face trial. If convicted, she could face life imprisonment. The police have also registered a case under the Juvenile Justice Act for child abandonment.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing issue of female infanticide in parts of India, driven by poverty, lack of education, and societal preference for male children. Activists urge the government to implement more effective measures to prevent such crimes.
