At least five children suffered serious burn injuries after a man allegedly threw boiling oil on them in Unnao district in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Two of the injured children are reported to be in critical condition, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred in Hasanpur Dragpal Kheda village during a “Terahvi” ceremony, a Hindu ritual observed on the 13th day after a person’s death to mark the end of the mourning period. The ceremony was being held in memory of Hiralal, a centenarian who passed away last month at the age of 100.
During the gathering, several children were playing nearby. According to preliminary reports, some of them accidentally splashed water on a man identified as Vishal. Enraged by the incident, Vishal allegedly picked up a pan containing boiling oil from a nearby shop and threw it toward the children.
The attack caused severe burn injuries to multiple children who were present at the scene. Hearing their screams, villagers immediately rushed to help and arranged for the injured children to be taken to a hospital in Lucknow, located about 65 kilometres away, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The injured children have been identified as Sudhir (14), Raunak (11), Sumit (14), Shyambabu (10) and Manoj (12). According to village head Balmiki, Sudhir and Manoj suffered the most severe burns and remain in critical condition while undergoing medical care.
Police have registered a case against the accused, Vishal, who fled the scene shortly after the attack and is currently absconding. Authorities have launched a search operation to locate him as the investigation into the incident continues.
