A wedding ceremony in the northern Indian city of Panipat took a tragic turn on Monday when a six-year-old girl was found unresponsive during family celebrations, leading to the arrest of one of her relatives and the opening of a wider criminal investigation that has now expanded to include several past incidents.
The child, identified by local authorities as Vidhi, had travelled to the event with her parents, her infant brother and her grandmother to attend a family function. What began as a joyful gathering of relatives soon descended into confusion and panic after the girl could no longer be found among the guests.
According to police, family members first realised Vidhi was missing after her father received a call alerting him that she had wandered away from the main area of the celebration. A search was quickly organised by relatives, who looked through nearby rooms and areas around the venue. After about an hour, Vidhi was discovered by a family member in a storage room near the event site. She was immediately rushed to a nearby medical facility, NC Medical College, where doctors later confirmed her death.
Authorities have arrested a woman identified locally as Poonam, who is related to the victim, in connection with the incident. During questioning by police, she allegedly admitted to being responsible for Vidhi’s death. Investigators say the reported motive was linked to feelings of jealousy and resentment. The alleged confession has led police to reopen and re-examine a number of previous unexplained child deaths that occurred in the same family and surrounding area.
According to initial findings shared with local media, Poonam has reportedly claimed involvement in the deaths of several other children over the past two years, including another young relative and her own child. All of those cases had originally been recorded as accidental deaths, with no suspicion of foul play at the time. However, following the latest incident and her statements to investigators, authorities have announced plans to conduct fresh inquiries, including forensic reviews, interviews with family members and neighbors, and a re-evaluation of medical records.
Panipat police officials confirmed that a full investigation is now underway. “We are taking this case extremely seriously,” a senior officer stated. “The accused is in custody and further questioning is ongoing. We are also reviewing earlier reports connected to the family and nearby villages. Every allegation will be verified through proper legal and forensic procedures.”
The development has sent shockwaves through the community, where residents expressed disbelief that such an act could allegedly take place during a family celebration. Neighbors and extended family members described the wedding day as one that was meant to be filled with happiness and unity. Instead, it is now remembered as a moment that brought grief and distress to multiple households.
Child safety advocates have also responded to the incident, calling it a reminder of the urgent need for stronger awareness, supervision and mental-health support within communities. “Violence against children, in any form, must be addressed not only through the criminal justice system but also through prevention strategies,” said a local child rights activist. “Families and institutions need to recognise warning signs and provide safe environments, especially during large gatherings.”
Medical professionals involved in the case have refrained from giving detailed statements, citing the ongoing legal process. They confirmed only that the child was brought to the hospital unresponsive and that all required procedures and reporting protocols were followed.
Meanwhile, Vidhi’s family is said to be in deep shock. Friends and relatives have gathered to support her parents as they navigate both their loss and the unfolding investigation. Community members have begun organising counselling and support for those affected, especially the children who were present during the celebration.
Authorities have indicated that further charges may be filed depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation into the other deaths. They have also urged members of the public not to spread unverified information and to allow the legal process to continue.
For now, the focus remains on establishing the full truth behind the tragedies, ensuring justice for the victims and preventing any similar incidents in the future. The case stands as a disturbing reminder that even in moments meant for joy, vigilance and care for one another remain essential.
Source:Africa Publicity
