A 10-year-old girl, missing since Tuesday, was found hanging from a tree in Mehnawa village under Maner police station in Patna, Bihar, on Thursday, triggering widespread outrage. The grim discovery has led to allegations of murder and possible sexual assault, with locals blocking roads and burning tyres in protest, demanding swift justice.

Patna City SP (West) Bhanu Pratap Singh told reporters, “A missing person report was filed after the family’s complaint. Initial findings suggest murder, possibly by hanging, or the body was hung post-mortem.” He noted allegations of sexual assault, adding, “The post-mortem report will clarify the cause of death and any assault.” A special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to probe the case, with police analyzing CCTV footage and scientific evidence to identify the culprit.

The incident has heightened concerns about crimes against minors in Bihar, with locals accusing the authorities of delayed action. “This is not the first time such a tragedy has struck. The police must act faster,” said a protesting villager, Ramesh Yadav. The unrest disrupted traffic for hours as residents expressed their anger over the brutal crime.

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This case follows a disturbing pattern of violence against young girls in the region. Earlier this year, a similar incident in Muzaffarpur, where a 10-year-old Dalit girl was raped and died after alleged hospital delays, drew national attention. The National Human Rights Commission and National Commission for Women have since called for stricter measures to protect vulnerable communities.

The ongoing investigation in Maner is under pressure to deliver results, with the community vowing to continue protests until the perpetrator is brought to justice.

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