5 of Dalit family shot dead

Etawah, Mar 13 (UNI) Five members of a Dalit family, including two women, were shot dead in Ekdil area here late last night, police said today.

The incident occurred at Ameenabad village, where some masked gunmen barged into Vishram Singh's house and opened fire on the family.

Vishram (50), Rajni (45), Arjun Singh (35), Soni (35) and Tinku (18) died on the spot.

Senior Superintednent of Police (SSP) S R S Aditya said for the last few years, Vishram was fighting a land dispute case against neighbours Haum Singh, Raghunath Singh, Mahendra Singh and Soneveer Lokhriya.

Fifteen days back, the court had passed a judgement in favour of Vishram, which was emerging as the reason for the revenge, he said.

Meanwhile, the state government has announced financial assitance of Rs one lakh each to the bereaved family.

Besides, Rs 20,000 ex-gratia would be given.

A massive manhunt to nab the culprits was on.

UNI JAS SB KN1510