A youth was brutally attacked by an unidentified assailant at People's Mall in the Karond area of Bhopal, leaving him critically injured with around 25 stitches on his face and head. The incident, which occurred on April 24 at around 7:30 pm, has raised serious concerns over public safety in one of the city’s busiest recreational spots.
The victim, Sami, a resident of Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir locality near Fiza Hospital under Talaiya police station limits, was out with his fiancée Zoya when the attack took place. According to the police complaint, the couple had gone to a nearby shop to buy ice cream when an unidentified youth suddenly approached them and started hurling abuses without provocation. When Sami objected, the assailant drew a knife from his waist and attacked him viciously, targeting his head and face before fleeing the scene while issuing death threats.
Sami was immediately rushed to Hamidia Hospital in critical condition, where doctors administered approximately 25 stitches to treat his injuries. Despite the severity of the assault, more than 24 hours after the incident, police have neither apprehended the attacker nor retrieved CCTV footage from the mall premises.
Speaking to the media, Sami’s brother Shadab expressed deep frustration over the slow pace of the investigation, noting that the family is still awaiting updates from authorities. Shadab added that Sami, though in critical condition, has clearly stated that he can identify the attacker, which could aid the investigation if acted upon swiftly.
The Nishatpura police have registered a case against the unidentified accused and initiated an investigation. Senior officers assured that efforts are underway to examine CCTV footage and trace the suspect. However, the delay in action has sparked public outrage, with citizens questioning the effectiveness of security measures at crowded public places like People's Mall.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of growing security challenges in public spaces, and the victim’s family has urged authorities to expedite the investigation and bring the perpetrator to justice without further delay.
