Holi Dispute Turns Fatal in Lucknow: Man Beaten to Death by Neighbors
In a tragic incident in Lucknow, a Holi-related dispute over applying colors turned fatal in the Thakurganj area, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old man who was brutally beaten with sticks by his neighbors. This marks the third murder in the city linked to Holi celebrations, following previous cases in Mohanlalganj and Dubbaga.
Details of the Incident
The deceased has been identified as Ramesh Gautam, a 30-year-old native of Hardoi who lived in a rented house in the Lalabag locality of Thakurganj with his wife Ketki and their young son Ayush. Gautam worked as a daily-wager to support his family.
According to a complaint lodged by Ketki, the incident occurred around 1 pm on Wednesday. While Ketki was cooking at home, her relative Rekha, who lived nearby, came over to apply Holi colors. When Ketki resisted, Rekha began abusing her verbally.
Ketki alleged that Rekha then called her husband Suraj, brother-in-law Niraj, sister-in-law Chandni, and nephew Rajendra to the spot. The accused arrived armed with sticks and immediately began assaulting Ketki. Upon hearing the commotion, Ramesh Gautam rushed to his wife's defense.
Brutal Attack and Aftermath
The accused turned their aggression towards Gautam, attacking him brutally with sticks. The complaint states that they repeatedly struck him on the head, causing severe injuries. After collapsing from the blows, Gautam was left in critical condition as the attackers fled the scene.
Neighbors quickly intervened and rushed the injured couple to the Trauma Centre for emergency treatment. After receiving primary medical care, Ketki was discharged, but Gautam's condition remained critical. He succumbed to his injuries late Friday night during treatment, highlighting the severity of the assault.
Police Action and Legal Proceedings
Thakurganj Station House Officer Omvir Chauhan confirmed that a case has been registered against the five accused under sections related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, assault, and snatching. The police are actively investigating the matter to bring the perpetrators to justice.
This incident adds to a disturbing trend of violence during Holi in Lucknow, with two other murders reported earlier: a 7-year-old child killed in Mohanlalganj and a 22-year-old stabbed in Dubbaga. Authorities are urging citizens to celebrate the festival peacefully and avoid conflicts.
The community is in shock over this senseless loss of life, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and safety measures during festive occasions.
