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Dalit woman burnt alive for contesting panchayat elections

     Mirzapur: In a gruesome incident, Prabhati Devi, a Dalit woman was burnt alive at a village under Kon block of Mirzapur district for her audacity to contest in Panchayat elections against an upper caste candidate. She is now battling for her life in hospital with 80

per cent burn injuries. According to Prabhati's husband, Ghulab, some local politicians had warned her not to contest elections, but she did not listen to them. The incident is the result of ignoring their warning. Prabhati was contesting the Kshetra Panchayat polls on a BSP ticket "When she filled the application form, she was asked to withdraw her application and support Sandeep Tiwari. But we did not listen and she contested the election in spite of the warning. The incident is the outcome of ignoring the warning," said Ghulab. Villagers suspect Prabhati's nephews for conniving with the criminals in setting her ablaze. "We were busy in election. After casting our votes, Lalji and Jugnu in an inebriated condition used abusive words at us. They also threatened us. While we were asleep, they burnt her alive," said Ramchander, a villager. According to police officials, three persons have been named in the FIR. Orders have been issued for "prompt investigation" into the incident and all the necessary medical facilities are being provided to her for treatment. "She has suffered some burn injuries and a case has been registered against three people. Orders have been issued for prompt investigation and prompt arrest. Moreover, the District Magistrate has given orders regarding the medical treatment of the lady," said Anupama Singh, Superintendent of Police, Mau. Meanwhile, tension has gripped the area following the incident.