Patna, January 30: A 91-year-old Mahadalit woman was cremated on a public road in Bihar's Vaishali district on Thursday, January 29, after her family was allegedly blocked from accessing a traditional cremation ground. The incident, which took place in the Amas block, has triggered widespread outrage and protests from the local community.

Despite pleas from the grieving family, access to the land, traditionally used for last rites, was reportedly obstructed by influential local residents, forcing the family to perform the final rituals on the roadside. The deceased, identified as Panwa Devi, belonged to the Mahadalit community, a group historically marginalised in the region. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the matter following a formal complaint by the victim’s relatives. Bihar Shocker: 20-Year-Old BA Student Killed in Patna After Minor Tea, Cigarette Argument Turns Violent.

Denial of Access and Forced Roadside Rites

The family stated that when they reached the designated cremation spot, they found the pathway blocked. According to witnesses, a group of dominant-caste individuals claimed ownership of the land and refused to let the funeral procession pass. After several hours of unsuccessful negotiations and with the body deteriorating, the family felt they had no choice but to light the pyre on the edge of a nearby road.

Video of the cremation on the road began circulating on social media shortly after, prompting activists to demand immediate action against those responsible for the blockade. Protesters gathered at the site, alleging that the administration has consistently ignored the lack of designated, encroached-free burial and cremation grounds for Mahadalit families. Bihar Shocker: 24-Year-Old Woman Abducted, Gang-Raped by 6 Men, Saves Herself Using Accused’s Mobile to Call Police.

District officials arrived at the scene late Friday to pacify the crowd and ensure law and order. A senior police officer confirmed that an FIR (First Information Report) is being registered under relevant sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The local Circle Officer has been directed to verify the land records to determine if the cremation ground was indeed public property or under illegal encroachment.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 30, 2026 05:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).