Man sentenced to death for killing lover’s 18-month-old son

A sessions court in Uttar Pradesh’s Firozabad district has sentenced a man to death for brutally murdering his lover’s 18-month-old son, whom he allegedly considered an obstacle to their relationship and marriage. The verdict was delivered within 40 days of the trial. The convict, Viraj, was found guilty of killing 18-month-old Aarav in Shikohabad’s Yadav Colony on May 30.
According to the prosecution, Viraj repeatedly hurled the toddler onto the road, causing fatal injuries. The child was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Police investigation revealed that Viraj was in a relationship with the child’s mother and believed the boy stood in the way of their marriage. The woman also reportedly told investigators that she intended to marry Viraj and viewed her son as an obstacle. CCTV footage capturing the assault became crucial evidence and triggered widespread public outrage after it surfaced on social media. Viraj, who fled after the crime, was later arrested by police. The police filed the charge sheet within six days of the incident. During the trial, the prosecution examined 13 witnesses, while the defence examined one witness. Relying on eyewitness testimony, CCTV footage and forensic evidence, the court convicted Viraj and awarded him the death penalty.