Dalit Girl Tied to Tree and Beaten in UP; Accused Shop Owner Arrested

Lucknow: A 14-year-old Dalit girl was subjected to a brutal assault in Mishrauli village of Deoria district, Uttar Pradesh, on May 31. The girl was accused of stealing from a local grocery shop, following which shop owner Harish Gupta dragged her by the hair through the street before tying her to a tree in front of his house and beating her, subjecting her to casteist abuse throughout. The assault took place in full view of residents and family members.

A bystander alerted police through the emergency helpline 112, and officers arrived at the scene and rescued the girl. Harish Gupta has been arrested. Police have said strict action will be taken against the accused.

Videos of the assault circulated widely on social media, triggering widespread outrage and protests.