UP man accused of killing toddler injured in police encounter
The accused, Hiralal, sustained leg injuries after allegedly opening fire on a police team in Hamirpur district on Monday.
A 35-year-old labourer named Hiralal, who was arrested for the alleged abduction, sexual assault and murder of a three-year-old toddler, sustained bullet injuries to both legs in Hamirpur district on Monday, according to The Indian Express.
Police said Hiralal opened fire at a team while being taken to the crime scene to collect evidence. The police retaliated in self-defence, leaving him with injuries to his legs. He was moved from a community health centre to a district hospital, where doctors said his condition was stable.
The victim's family reported her missing on Sunday evening while she was playing outside their house. Hiralal was reportedly seen with the child and later led police to the spot where the girl's body was found.
A post-mortem examination conducted by a panel of doctors confirmed the child died of strangulation. Police are currently searching for Hiralal's brother-in-law, Govind, 50, who is also accused of the crime and remains absconding.
Hamirpur Circle Officer Rajeev Pratap Singh said raids are being conducted to trace Govind. Meanwhile, a team from the Rath Nagar Palika demolished a portion of Govind's house on Monday, which authorities claimed was an illegal construction.
A large police contingent was deployed in the area following vandalism by protesting villagers, who damaged some vehicles parked on the roadside.