Accused in Toddler's Murder Shot in Legs During Hamirpur Encounter

A man accused of raping and murdering a three-year-old girl was wounded in a police encounter in Hamirpur district of Uttar Pradesh. Heeralal was struck in both legs after he allegedly fired on officers.

The incident came to light after the child's body was found on November 1 in a town under Muskara police station jurisdiction. The killing sent shockwaves through the area.

Following a complaint from the child's father, police booked Heeralal, who was named in the FIR. The Superintendent of Police set up three teams to trace the accused and uncover the facts of the case.

The teams arrested Heeralal, and during interrogation he allegedly confessed that he had enticed the girl to a field, where the crime took place. He later killed her, police said.

According to ASP Arvind Kumar, the accused was taken to the crime scene to collect evidence. He allegedly opened fire on the police party with an illegal country-made pistol, prompting a retaliatory shot that hit him in both legs.

Heeralal was first admitted to the CHC and then referred to the district hospital for advanced treatment. Police said the investigation is continuing.