A tragic incident in Varanasi has resulted in the death of a pregnant woman following a violent altercation with her neighbours over the placement of an auto-rickshaw. The victim, identified as Sanoli Patel (35), was five months pregnant and succumbed to her injuries after being brutally beaten.
Dispute Over Auto-Rickshaw Turns Deadly
The incident occurred on Sunday in the Pandeypur-Lalpur police station area on Hukulganj-Khajuri Road. According to police reports, the conflict began when Sanoli's husband, Dashmi Patel, who works as a follower at government officials' residences, summoned an auto-rickshaw for his wife who was experiencing complications.
As Sanoli was unable to walk to the auto-rickshaw waiting on the main road, Dashmi attempted to guide the vehicle into the narrow lane to pick her up directly from their doorstep. This move was strongly opposed by local traders and neighbours, sparking a heated argument. The situation quickly escalated into physical violence, with locals assaulting Dashmi.
Intervention Leads to Fatal Attack
Witnessing her husband being attacked, Sanoli intervened in an attempt to protect him. Her mother-in-law later alleged that during the assault, the attackers specifically kicked Sanoli in her womb, causing severe internal injuries and heavy bleeding. Shockingly, the assailants reportedly prevented Dashmi from taking his critically injured wife to a hospital for several hours.
Sanoli was eventually rushed to a medical facility, but she died during treatment. Assistant Commissioner of Police (Cantt) Nitin Taneja confirmed that based on the complaint filed by the deceased's family, the police have arrested four accused individuals in connection with the case.
Public Outrage and Road Blockade
The brutal killing sparked widespread anger in the community. On Monday evening, Sanoli's grieving family members and local residents staged a powerful protest. They blocked a busy road by placing her body on the thoroughfare, demanding the immediate arrest of all those responsible for her death.
The demonstration caused significant disruption to traffic movement in the area. The protestors only called off their agitation and agreed to hand over the body for a post-mortem examination after police officials assured them of prompt action and the immediate arrest of the accused.
This horrific event has raised serious concerns about public safety and mob violence in residential areas of Varanasi. The police investigation is ongoing to determine the full sequence of events and ensure justice for Sanoli Patel and her unborn child.
