A disturbing acid attack on a young Delhi University student near Laxmi Bai College has taken a shocking turn with the arrest of the victim’s own father. The investigation, initially focused on alleged stalking, is now grappling with inconsistencies, potential family disputes, and a rapidly evolving narrative.
The 20-year-old student, pursuing her studies at the Non-Collegiate Women’s Education Board, was attacked around 10:52 am on October 26. She sustained severe burns to her hands and minor injuries to her stomach, later being admitted to Deep Chand Bandhu Hospital.
Early allegations pointed towards Jitender, a married painter, and his associates Ishan and Arman, who were accused of ambushing her on a motorcycle. The victim claimed Jitender had stalked her for over a year and they had a recent altercation. Forensic analysis confirmed the liquid used was a potent acid.
However, crucial CCTV footage from Ashok Vihar and Karol Bagh, along with detailed call records and witness accounts, placed Jitender at a legitimate work site in Karol Bagh during the time of the incident. No footage corroborated the claims of the assailants approaching or fleeing the scene.
The police have now apprehended the victim’s father, a factory owner, who was reportedly hiding at a relative’s home. Investigators suspect his involvement in orchestrating elements of the attack or manipulating details of the initial complaint. A separate FIR is also being investigated concerning allegations made by Jitender’s wife against the victim’s father, including sexual harassment and extortion.
Further scrutiny of CCTV timelines revealed unusual movements, with the victim being dropped off by her brother and then transferring to an e-rickshaw shortly before the alleged attack. The arrest of the father is expected to provide critical insights into the complex web of events surrounding this case.