In a shocking incident in Noida, two quick-commerce delivery workers turned into real-life heroes late Tuesday night, saving two young children who had been allegedly thrown into a deep drain by their stepfather. The children, a four-year-old girl and her two-and-a-half-year-old brother, are now safe and under medical observation.
The Timely Rescue by Delivery Executives
The dramatic rescue unfolded around 9 pm near Paras Tierra Society in Sector 137. Somveer Singh and his colleague Deenvandu, both delivery executives for the Zepto platform, were returning from their last delivery when they heard faint, frantic cries. The sounds were coming from a drain near the Chauhan market T-point.
Sensing immediate danger, the duo rushed towards the source of the noise. Peering into the drain, they were horrified to find the two young children trapped approximately three metres (10 feet) below in pungent, stagnant water. The soaked and terrified siblings were struggling to prevent themselves from slipping deeper into the slush.
Without a second thought, both men climbed down into the drain and successfully lifted the children to safety. Their quick thinking and bravery in those critical minutes likely prevented a tragedy.
Stepfather's Alleged Motive and Arrest
Once the children were safe, Somveer Singh asked them how they ended up in the drain. The children reportedly pointed fingers at their "father, Ashish", stating he had pushed them in just moments before the rescue.
The delivery executives alerted nearby residents, who helped arrange for the children to be taken to a private hospital. They received first aid and were kept under observation.
Police investigation revealed that Ashish (22), who works as a security guard, is the children's stepfather. Investigators stated that he had allegedly "resented their presence" and was unwilling to take responsibility for them. Officers said he waited for the children's mother, Neelam, to be away before carrying out the act near their residence in Shahdara, where the family had moved about a year ago.
Based on the complaint filed by Somveer Singh, an FIR was registered under BNS sections 109(1) for attempt to murder and section 93 for exposure and abandonment of a child under 12. Acting swiftly, the police arrested Ashish on Wednesday near the Sector 142 metro station. Preliminary questioning indicated his motive was simply that he did not want the children to live with him.
Family Background and Legal Aftermath
Police provided details on the family's background. Neelam and Ashish, both originally from Kanpur, had known each other for several years. Neelam was previously married to Ashish's cousin. After leaving that marriage, she began living with Ashish in Noida along with her two children from her first marriage.
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community. It highlights both a horrifying instance of alleged child endangerment and an inspiring act of courage by two ordinary citizens. The delivery workers' alertness and willingness to act have been widely praised.
The children remain under medical care, and the stepfather is in police custody as the investigation continues to build a strong legal case against him.
