A disturbing assault on a 37-year-old flower seller in South Delhi's Hauz Khas area has triggered outrage after a video of the incident went viral on social media.
Delhi Police have apprehended six people, including four juveniles, in connection with the attack, which took place near the Yusuf Sarai bus stand on Aurobindo Marg during the early hours of November 8.
The victim, identified as Radha Singh, was allegedly attacked with sticks and stones along with her teenage relative and another family member. Police said the accused were apprehended following an investigation initiated after the video surfaced online.
Viral Video Shows Brutal Assault
The video circulating on social media shows a group of men approaching a roadside flower stall where the woman was selling flowers and garlands with her family.
The attackers are allegedly seen striking the woman repeatedly with sticks. Even after she falls to the ground, the assault reportedly continues. A minor and another man who attempted to intervene were also attacked. The footage sparked widespread concern and brought the incident to the attention of Delhi Police.
Six Apprehended, Including Four Juveniles
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Anant Mittal, six people have been apprehended in connection with the incident.
The apprehended individuals include Soni, 35, Usman Naushad, 22, and four juveniles. Police said the two adult accused have previous criminal records. Investigators stated that the accused and the victims were relatives and that the families had been involved in earlier disputes.
Dispute Behind the Attack Under Investigation
According to the victim's complaint, the alleged attackers arrived at the location, assaulted the family members and fled after threatening them. The injured victims were shifted to Madan Mohan Malviya Hospital for medical treatment.
While the family alleged that the assault was connected to previous threats and pressure to sell marijuana, police said their preliminary investigation indicated longstanding family enmity as a possible reason behind the incident.
Police Register Case, Further Investigation Underway
A case has been registered at Hauz Khas Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections relating to assault, criminal intimidation and attempted culpable homicide.
Police are investigating the specific roles of all those involved. The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of vulnerable street vendors and the need for timely intervention against violence. Further investigation is underway to establish the complete sequence of events and determine the responsibility of each accused.