Rumor instigates violence in Agar Malwa, woman assaulted on suspicion of child theft

Agar Malwa. The rumor of child abduction heated up the atmosphere on Friday night in Susner city of Agar Malwa district of Madhya Pradesh (MP). At around 7:30, people saw a woman in a suspicious condition at the agricultural produce market intersection. Due to the rumour, people surrounded him and arrested him, suspecting that he had stolen the child. The police were informed, but before they could arrive, the crowd started holding the woman’s hand and taking out a procession.

Some people scuffled with the woman, while many people kept making videos of her. The mob was holding the woman and taking her towards the highway. During this time the woman looked nervous. As soon as the information was received, the police reached the spot and rescued the woman from the crowd and brought her to the police station.

Toys found in search, fear of child theft wrong
The woman was interrogated at the police station and her investigation was conducted on Saturday. During the search, some toys and other items were found from him. Investigation revealed that the woman is a resident of Morvi district of Gujarat and is mentally ill. She often leaves home and returns after a few months.

Police station in-charge Kesar Rajput told that the woman’s name is Geeta (50). Her husband has provided Aadhar card and documents related to treatment. He is undergoing mental treatment. According to the police, the suspicion of child theft has turned out to be completely wrong. There is no report of any child missing.

Information given to family members, woman under police protection
Police said that the woman had already been recovered from Punjab. She stays at home for 8 to 15 days and then leaves. At present he has been kept under police protection. Morvi police and family members have been informed and they have been called to Susner.

This incident has raised questions over the actions taken by the mob by relying on rumors without investigation. Police have clarified that the talk of child theft is baseless and further action is being taken in the matter.