A 15-year-old boy was allegedly forced to consume acid in Begusarai district on Saturday, leaving him critically injured during a dispute over stolen jewellery. The victim, identified as Raushan Kumar, a resident of Pokharia locality under Balia police station area, is undergoing treatment at Begusarai sadar hospital. Doctors said his condition remains serious.
Incident Linked to Theft of Sister's Ornaments
Family members alleged that the incident was linked to a recent case of theft within the boy's house. According to Raushan's uncle, Dharmveer Yadav, the teenager had stolen ornaments belonging to his sister and had kept them with a friend, identified as Sajan. When the family came to know about the theft, they allegedly pressured Raushan to recover the valuables. Under pressure, he contacted Sajan and asked for the return of the ornaments.
On Saturday, Sajan allegedly called Raushan to a nearby ground on the pretext of returning the jewellery. However, when the boy reached the spot, he was allegedly assaulted by Sajan and his associates. The accused then allegedly forced acid into his mouth, leaving him with severe internal injuries. Hearing his cries, locals rushed to the spot and took him to a nearby primary health centre. From there, he was referred to the sadar hospital due to his critical condition.
Police Investigation Underway
Police said the victim is currently not in a position to give a statement. A complaint has been lodged by the family, and efforts are on to identify and arrest the accused. Further investigation is underway. Begusarai SP Manish on Sunday said the police recorded the statement of the victim at the Sadar hospital. “The victim has named one person besides two unidentified persons who forcefully administered him acid,” he said.
The incident has shocked the local community, with residents demanding swift action against the perpetrators. Authorities have assured that all necessary steps will be taken to bring the accused to justice.
