Moradabad Lovers’ Honor Killing: Inside Story of the Tragic Incident in Umri Sabzipur

Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh: A shocking case of honor killing has come to light in Moradabad, leaving the entire community stunned. A private school teacher and her lover were brutally murdered by her own family members.

The incident occurred in Umri Sabzipur village under the Pakbara police jurisdiction on the night of Sunday, January 18. According to reports, the teacher, Kajal, was visited by her lover, Arman, at her home. Upon seeing him, her family members reportedly became enraged. In a horrifying act, her brothers attacked the couple with spades, killing both. To cover up the crime, the bodies were reportedly transported about two kilometers away and buried in a dug-out pit in a nearby forest.

The Brutal Night
The crime occurred around midnight. Neighbors reported hearing screams from Kajal’s room. When her family opened the room, they found Arman inside. An eyewitness account suggested that the family started beating Arman first, and when Kajal tried to intervene, she too was attacked. The dense fog that night prevented neighbors from hearing the screams clearly, which allegedly allowed the attackers to commit the crime undisturbed.

Attempt to Destroy Evidence
After the murders, the perpetrators allegedly attempted to erase all evidence. Both bodies were placed in a sack and buried near the Gagan River in a forested area close to a local temple. Despite committing the crime, the accused reportedly continued their daily routines, leaving the house at 5 a.m. and returning by 7 p.m.

Previous Dispute Over Relationship
Arman, the son of local resident Hanif, had a prior history of a romantic relationship with Kajal. Four years ago, the matter had caused significant unrest in the village, prompting a local panchayat to order Arman’s removal from the village. Arman moved to Dubai, where he worked in tile installation, and returned to Moradabad four months ago. His family wanted him to go back to Dubai, but he refused. Arman’s sister alleged that he was lured under false pretenses and murdered in a premeditated plan.

Police Response Under Scrutiny
Criticism has been raised regarding the police response. Arman’s family reportedly approached the Pakbara police on Monday to lodge a complaint, but the officers allegedly dismissed it, claiming that the couple had eloped. The police reportedly suggested that the family either prepare to send Kajal back or face legal consequences. Only after persistent appeals, including a petition to the SSP, was Arman’s brother taken into custody, and the double murder came to light.

Father’s Accusations
Hanif, Arman’s father, has publicly accused the police of negligence and bias, claiming that although multiple names were provided in the complaint, only three — Rajaram, Rinku, and Satish — were officially registered. Villagers have alleged that the case was deliberately suppressed for three days.

Kajal, a respected and diligent private school teacher, was remembered fondly by colleagues and students. A condolence meeting was organized at her school following the tragic news.

This horrific case has once again spotlighted the persistent issue of honor killings in India and has left the Moradabad community in deep shock.