A shocking daylight attack outside a prominent college in Moradabad has sent ripples of tension through the city. A 19-year-old commerce student suffered serious burns after being allegedly set on fire by two youths, both believed to be students of the same institution.
Broad Daylight Attack at College Gate
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon just outside the gates of Hindu College, one of Moradabad's older educational institutions. The victim, identified as Farhad Ali, a BCom student, had just stepped out after completing an examination. Witnesses described a scene of sudden horror as flames erupted from his clothes near the college entrance.
According to police, two young men—Aarush Singh (21), a BA third-semester student, and Deepak Kumar (20)—allegedly hurled a flammable substance at Farhad. The attack resulted in serious burns on his thighs. Panic ensued as students and passers-by scrambled to help, using water bottles and cloth to douse the flames.
Police Investigation and Suspects on the Run
Moradabad (City) SP Kumar Ranvijay Singh stated that initial evidence suggests the attackers used a petrol-filled bottle, possibly a petrol bomb. "We're collecting forensic samples to confirm. An FIR is registered. No one has been arrested yet," the SP said. The two accused are currently on the run, and their motive remains unknown.
Police have launched a comprehensive investigation, which includes:
- Analyzing footage from nearby CCTV cameras.
- Collecting statements from eyewitnesses present on campus.
- Sending the suspected bottle used in the attack for chemical analysis.
The names of the suspects emerged during the questioning of people present at the campus at the time of the crime.
Victim's Condition and Community Impact
Farhad Ali sustained approximately 8% burn injuries in the vicious assault. He was initially rushed to a private facility on Delhi Road for emergency care before being shifted to the district hospital. Officials have reported that his condition is now stable.
The violence has triggered significant tension in the locality, prompting authorities to deploy a heavy police presence around the college campus to prevent any further unrest. The brazen nature of the attack in a public educational space has raised serious concerns about student safety.
The investigation is ongoing as police teams work to apprehend the fleeing suspects and establish a clear motive behind this alarming act of violence.
