News Flash Daily
19 February 
Inter-Caste Marriage Allegedly Triggers Brutal Assault at Handral Village Wedding; Victim Critical at District Hospital
Koppal: In a disturbing case of alleged caste-based violence, a four-month pregnant woman was brutally attacked with an axe by her brother at Handral village in Koppal district on Wednesday. Police suspect the assault may be linked to her inter-caste marriage, terming it a possible “honour-based” crime.
The victim, identified as Meenakshi, had married Uday, a man from a different caste, around a year ago against her family’s wishes. Following their marriage, the couple had been residing in Bengaluru.
Attack at Wedding Function
According to police sources, Meenakshi had returned to her native village to attend the wedding of her brother-in-law. During the function, her brother Manjunath allegedly barged into the venue armed with an axe and attacked her in full public view.
She sustained grievous injuries to her head, back, and left hand. Family members and bystanders rushed her to Koppal District Hospital, where she is currently undergoing treatment. Doctors have described her condition as critical.
“Prima facie, it appears to be a crime committed in the name of protecting the family’s honour. The accused has been taken into custody, and further investigation is underway to determine the exact motive,” said Koppal Superintendent of Police Ram L Arasiddi.
Accused in Custody, Probe Continues
Police confirmed that Manjunath has been detained and is being interrogated. A case has been registered at the Koppal Rural Police Station under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including attempt to murder and other applicable provisions.
Investigators are examining witness statements and gathering evidence from the wedding venue to establish the sequence of events. Authorities are also assessing whether the attack was premeditated.
Concerns Over Honour-Based Violence
The incident has reignited debate over honour-based violence linked to inter-caste marriages in parts of Karnataka. Activists have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement of laws protecting couples who marry outside traditional caste boundaries.
Police officials have assured that strict action will be taken against the accused in accordance with the law. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
