A counselling session at a police station in Uttar Pradesh's Banda district ended in tragedy after a 19-year-old woman was allegedly attacked by her parents for refusing to abandon her husband and return home. The woman later succumbed to her injuries during treatment, prompting police to arrest her father and launch a detailed investigation into the incident.
The victim, identified as Shivani, had left her home on May 18 with her neighbour, Lalit Verma. The couple subsequently got married at a temple and completed the registration process, according to police.
After Shivani's disappearance, her family lodged a complaint against Lalit, leading authorities to begin a search operation. The couple was eventually traced to Madhya Pradesh's Satna district and brought back to Banda for questioning.
Couple insisted marriage was consensual
According to NDTV, during questioning, Shivani and Lalit reportedly told police that they had married willingly and presented documents supporting their claim. Officials were preparing to conduct the woman's medical examination and record her statement before further legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, members of both families arrived at the police station, where officers attempted to mediate the dispute through a counselling session. According to police, Shivani's parents repeatedly urged her to return home, but she remained firm in her decision to stay with her husband.
The disagreement escalated as the counselling session progressed, creating a tense atmosphere inside the police station.
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Attack unfolded during counselling session
According to NDTV, police said the situation turned violent when Shivani's mother allegedly restrained her from behind while her father pulled out a knife and attacked her.
The young woman sustained multiple injuries to her abdomen, arm and palm during the assault. Officers immediately arranged medical assistance and rushed her for treatment.
Despite efforts by doctors, Shivani later died from her injuries, transforming the case from an assault investigation into a homicide probe.
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Father arrested, investigation underway
According to NDTV, Banda Superintendent of Police Palash Bansal confirmed that a case has been registered under relevant legal provisions and that the victim's father has been taken into custody.
Authorities are now examining all aspects of the incident, including how the attack was carried out inside a police station during an official counselling process. Statements from witnesses and police personnel present at the scene are also expected to form part of the investigation.
