Assam Court Convicts 20 in 2018 Mob Lynching Case Linked to Child Abduction Rumors

A special court in Assam has delivered a significant verdict in a high-profile mob lynching case, convicting 20 individuals while acquitting 25 others. The incident dates back to June 2018, when two men, Nilotpal Das and Abhijeet Nath, were brutally killed in the Karbi Anglong district, fueled by rumors on social media suggesting they were child abductors.

The two victims, both from Guwahati, had traveled to the scenic Kangthilangso waterfall. Their return journey took a tragic turn when a group of locals stopped their vehicle at Panjuri, forcibly removed them, and subjected them to a fatal assault. Disturbing videos circulated widely on social media showed Das and Nath pleading with the crowd, asserting their innocence and insisting they were merely tourists.

This incident occurred during a wave of fear and panic triggered by unverified reports of child kidnappings that had swept across various parts of the country. The case drew national attention, highlighting the dangers of mob justice and the consequences of misinformation spreading through social media platforms.

On Monday, Nagaon District Sessions Judge DJ Mahanta announced the convictions under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including murder committed by members of an unlawful assembly, rioting, and causing intentional harm. The court highlighted that the prosecution could not substantiate its case against the 25 other accused individuals who were arrested in connection with the incident, leading to their acquittal.

The sentencing for the convicted individuals is scheduled for Friday, as the court prepares to determine appropriate penalties for their roles in this heinous crime. The verdict serves as a reminder of the urgent need for legal reforms and public awareness to combat mob violence and misinformation in society.

Source: scroll.in