A 20-year-old engineering student, Naveen Kumar, was murdered in Chilakalguda, Hyderabad, on February 22nd. His family and relatives staged a protest alleging the involvement of the woman he was in a relationship with and her family in the crime.
Naveen was found dead near the railway tracks, initially believed to be a suicide. However, the family disputes this, claiming evidence points to murder. They allege Naveen was harassed and threatened by the woman’s family due to their inter-caste relationship. The woman’s family reportedly disapproved of the relationship as Naveen belonged to a different caste.
Protesters demanded a thorough investigation and the arrest of all those involved, including the woman and her relatives. They presented evidence, including phone records and messages, suggesting Naveen was under duress and feared for his life. The family claims Naveen was lured to the spot under false pretenses and then attacked.
Police initially registered a case of suspicious death but have now altered it to a murder case based on the evidence presented by the family and subsequent investigation. A special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to probe the case.
The woman, identified as P. Lakshmi, has been detained for questioning. Police are investigating her role and the extent of her family’s involvement. Initial reports suggest discrepancies in her statements.
The family alleges police were initially reluctant to register a murder case and treated it as a suicide, delaying the investigation. They accuse the police of being influenced by the woman’s family. The protest aimed to pressure authorities to expedite the investigation and ensure justice for Naveen. The case has sparked outrage and raised concerns about caste-based violence and honour killings.
