Agra, May 22: In a chilling incident in Kailawada Kalan village in Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar district, a seven-year-old boy named Keshav Kumar was allegedly killed by his ‘haunted’ aunt as she wanted to get rid of  “evil shadow,” purportedly on the advice of a godman (exorcist). The shocking incident took place last week.

TOI reported that Keshav Kumar was discovered lifeless at his residence on Friday morning, prompting an investigation by local authorities. Shockingly, it was revealed that the boy's aunt, Ankita, aged 20, and her mother, Reena Devi, aged 50, were allegedly responsible for his death. The duo purportedly carried out the act under the guidance of a godman named Ram Gopal, who is currently evading arrest. Kashipur Horror: Woman Kills Stepdaughter, Buries Dead Body at Under-Construction Site in Uttarakhand, Arrested (Watch Video).

According to SP (city) Satyanarayan Prajapat, during interrogation, Ankita and Reena confessed to their involvement in the gruesome incident. They revealed that Ankita had been suffering from illness since the death of her cousin, Komal, by suicide around 18 months ago. Believing Ankita to be haunted by Komal's ghost, Reena sought the advice of Ram Gopal, who allegedly prescribed the sacrifice of a child as a remedy. Double Murder in Gujarat: Suspecting Affair With His Wife, Man Kills Two Nephews In Bhavnagar; Arrested.

Ankita, under the influence of her mother and the godman's advice, reportedly strangled Keshav to death. The police investigation uncovered evidence including the scarf used in the act, along with vermillion and a piece of paper containing occult symbols used in the ritual.

Khatauli SHO Umesh Kumar confirmed that a case under IPC section 302 (murder) has been registered against Ankita and Reena, who have been remanded to judicial custody. Efforts are underway to apprehend Ram Gopal, who is currently on the run.

The cops are continuing their investigation to know further details surrounding the tragic demise of young Keshav Kumar.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 22, 2024 08:11 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).