Haryana para-athlete beaten to death for objecting to harassment
What's the story
Rohit Dhankar, a national-level para-athlete from Haryana's Rohtak district, died on Saturday after he was brutally assaulted by a mob, NDTV reported. The attack occurred on Thursday night at a wedding in Rewari Khera, which is in Rohtak district, where Dhankar had objected to some guests' indecent behavior. He was attacked with iron rods and hockey sticks when he and his friend Jatin were returning home from the wedding.
Family's plea
Dhankar's uncle demands justice for brutal attack
Dhankar was initially admitted to Bhiwani General Hospital and later referred to Rohtak PGIMS, where he succumbed to his injuries. His uncle demanded justice and was quoted as saying, "There were around 30 to 35 bruise marks on his body. We want justice." The police have arrested six people in connection with the case and seized one vehicle used in the attack.
Athlete's legacy
Dhankar's achievements and family's struggle after father's death
Dhankar was a two-time junior para national record holder and a seven-time senior para national champion. He also represented India internationally in para powerlifting. His father died of a heart attack in 2017, leaving Dhankar as the sole breadwinner for his family. His mother worked as a tailor to support them after his father's death. The family is demanding the death penalty for the accused, with Dhankar's brother-in-law calling them "devastated."