A 49-year-old street vendor was reportedly strangled to death using a belt in south Delhi following a minor quarrel near the AIIMS Metro station. The incident occurred late on the night of July 23, 2026, as per police reports released on July 26, 2023. The victim, identified as Manoj Singh, succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at Safdarjung Hospital.

Details of the Assault

According to police statements, the event unfolded near Gate No. 3 of the AIIMS Metro station along Aurobindo Marg. After receiving a PCR call regarding a dispute, officers from Hauz Khas police station promptly arrived at the scene. Upon their arrival, they found Singh injured. He was swiftly transported to Safdarjung Hospital, where he later died from his wounds.

Initial investigations indicate that the altercation began as a verbal disagreement at a nearby bus stand, which escalated into physical violence. Police confirmed the identity of the accused as Lokesh, a 40-year-old resident of Taimur Nagar. He was reportedly apprehended at the scene by bystanders and subsequently handed over to the authorities.

A murder case has been filed at Hauz Khas police station, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. Police are exploring the details that led to the escalation of the altercation into a fatal attack.

Victim’s Background and Family Statements

Manoj Singh was originally from Mai village in Nawada district, Bihar, and had been selling clothing on the pavement adjacent to Gate No. 3 of Safdarjung Hospital for nearly two decades. Family members expressed their grief over the loss, with his son, Bittu Kumar, sharing that his father had been supporting the family through this small business for a significant period.

Bittu recounted the events leading up to the attack, stating that at approximately 10 pm, his father was returning home after finishing work. An allegedly intoxicated individual confronted Singh, initially bumping into him and subsequently initiating a confrontation. According to Bittu, despite Singh’s attempts to avoid the conflict, the man continued to pursue him and ultimately strangled him from behind.

Following the incident, onlookers intervened, overpowering the accused before alerting the police. Singh was rendered unconscious and taken to the hospital, where he was unable to recover. Bittu recalled receiving news of the incident around 11 pm that night, profoundly affecting the family.

Ongoing Investigations and Community Reaction

The local community has expressed shock over this tragic event, with many recalling Singh’s presence as a long-time vendor in the area. The police have assured that thorough investigations are underway to establish a clear account of the conflict and its fatal outcome.

Authorities emphasised the importance of addressing rising tensions and public safety in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, particularly where vendors operate. The investigation into the motives behind the assault and any potential witnesses continues as police gather evidence.

As the community seeks justice for Manoj Singh, local leaders have called for enhanced police presence and support for street vendors, urging officials to consider measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

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