A shocking murder in South Delhi has sparked concern after a 49-year-old street vendor was allegedly strangled to death with a belt following a minor altercation near AIIMS Metro Station, close to Safdarjung Hospital. The incident, which occurred late at night, has raised fresh questions about public safety in one of the capital’s busiest areas.
The victim, Manoj Singh, was originally from Bihar’s Nawada district and had been earning his livelihood by selling clothes on the pavement outside Gate No. 3 of Safdarjung Hospital for nearly two decades. According to police, he was attacked while returning home after finishing work for the day.
How the Incident Happened?
According to the preliminary police investigation, the violence began with a minor verbal argument near a bus stand outside the AIIMS Metro Station. The dispute soon escalated into a physical confrontation.
Police said the accused, identified as Lokesh (40), allegedly used his belt to strangle Manoj Singh during the fight. Passersby who witnessed the assault immediately intervened, overpowered the accused, and handed him over to the police before he could flee.
The injured vendor was rushed to Safdarjung Hospital, where doctors tried to save his life. However, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Family Alleges Unprovoked Attack
The victim’s son, Bittu Kumar, claimed that his father had tried to avoid the confrontation. According to the family, an intoxicated man deliberately bumped into Manoj Singh and started arguing. Even after Singh attempted to walk away, the accused allegedly followed him and attacked him from behind using a belt.
The family described Manoj Singh as the sole breadwinner who had spent nearly 20 years selling clothes outside the hospital to support his loved ones.
Police Register Murder Case
Delhi Police have registered a murder case at Hauz Khas Police Station. Officials confirmed that the accused was arrested at the scene after being restrained by members of the public.
Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the area and recording statements from eyewitnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events. Police have said that further investigation is underway and more details will be released as evidence is collected.
Public Safety Concerns
The murder has once again highlighted concerns over violent crimes in crowded public spaces across the national capital. The area around AIIMS Metro Station and Safdarjung Hospital remains busy throughout the day and night due to hospitals, public transport, and roadside markets.
Residents and local vendors have demanded stronger police patrolling and quicker security responses to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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