Horse-Buggy Driver Fatally Attacked in Northeast Delhi Robbery Attempt
A tragic incident unfolded in northeast Delhi's Seelampur area on Thursday, resulting in the alleged murder of a 54-year-old horse-buggy driver during an attempted robbery. The victim, identified as Banarsi Das, a resident of Bulandshahr district in Uttar Pradesh, had traveled to Delhi for work and was on his way to a wedding assignment when the attack occurred.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Authorities received information around 3 pm regarding an unconscious man brought to Jag Pravesh Chandra (JPC) hospital by local residents. Medical professionals declared him dead upon arrival. Through swift action involving technical surveillance and local intelligence, police traced and arrested a couple, both in their 40s and working as ragpickers, on the same day.
An inquiry revealed that Das was allegedly restrained and assaulted when the accused attempted to snatch money from him. During the altercation, the suspects reportedly attacked Das on the neck, causing him to lose consciousness and collapse. Police have registered a case of murder and robbery under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Family's Heartbreaking Account
Das's eldest son, Mukesh, shared with TOI that his father had gone for horseshoeing and was supposed to proceed directly to the wedding from there. "While he was paying, they noticed the cash in his hand and tried to steal it," Mukesh stated. He was at his shop when his brother informed him of their father's death.
Despite losing a leg in a horse-related accident years ago, Das continued working with a prosthetic limb to support his family. Tragically, one of his sons had also lost a leg in a train accident. Das is survived by three sons: two aged 32 and 27, who live in northeast Delhi and earn a living by stitching and embroidering clothes, and his youngest son, 24, who resides with their parents in the village.
Das's daughter-in-law expressed profound grief, noting, "He was a person with disability. We don't know what he could have done to instigate anyone." Her voice broke as she mentioned that Das's 22-year-old daughter had recently gotten married.
Broader Context and Community Impact
This incident highlights the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers and individuals with disabilities in urban areas. Das's story of perseverance—continuing to work despite physical challenges to provide for his family—adds a layer of poignancy to the crime. The swift police response demonstrates the importance of technical tools and community intelligence in solving such cases.
The community in Seelampur and beyond is left mourning the loss of a hardworking individual, while authorities emphasize the need for increased safety measures for workers in informal sectors.
