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It’s been nearly four years since the shocking incident at Lakhimpur Kheri, where four farmers were run over by a speeding SUV allegedly linked to a Union Minister’s son.
After years of courtroom delays, political silence, and public outcry the case is back in the spotlight.
But this time, the question isn’t just about justice.
It’s about whether India’s legal system and democracy still work for the common man.
What Exactly Happened in Lakhimpur Kheri?
October 3, 2021
Location: Tikunia village, Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh
Event: Peaceful protest by farmers against new farm laws
Suddenly, an SUV plowed through the crowd from behind.
Result:
- 4 farmers dead on the spot
- 1 journalist killed
- 3 BJP workers lynched in retaliation by the mob
The car was allegedly being driven by Ashish Mishra, son of Union Minister Ajay Mishra Teni.
The Video That Shook the Nation
A viral video captured the SUV ramming into farmers from behind no honk, no brakes, no warning.
“We heard screams. Then silence. Then more screaming.”
Eyewitness, farmer’s son
The visuals were clear. But justice? Not so much.
What Happened After?
- FIR filed against Ashish Mishra
- He was arrested but later released on bail
- Witnesses reported being threatened
- Key evidence went “missing” from police records
- Judicial process slowed over 30 hearings delayed or adjourned
Meanwhile, Ajay Mishra Teni remained in Modi’s cabinet.
The Public Reaction
- Farmers groups across India erupted in anger
- “Murder of democracy” banners at Delhi protests
- Supreme Court intervened, called out UP police’s “lazy investigation”
But the issue eventually disappeared from news channels and political speeches.
Why Is the Case Reopening in 2025?
New developments:
- A witness changed his statement, claiming he was threatened
- Another video angle surfaced from a private drone camera
- The mother of a victim filed a fresh petition in the Allahabad High Court
- Supreme Court issued notice to CBI for slow investigation
Voices from the Farmers
“We didn’t just lose our sons. We lost faith in this country.”
Mahendra Singh, father of a deceased farmer
“Ajay Mishra is still a minister. What does that say to us?”
Bhartiya Kisan Union Leader
Political Chessboard Moves
- BJP: Claims “law is taking its course”
- Congress & AAP: Reviving the case in election speeches
- Farmers unions: Planning a fresh march to Lakhimpur in August 2025
- Election Commission: Silent on influence of accused minister during UP local polls
What’s the Judiciary Saying?
- Supreme Court ordered:
- Protection for witnesses
- CBI to submit final report by October 2025
- Possible fast track hearing from November onward
But public trust in judicial speed remains fragile.
Why This Case Matters
It’s not just about four deaths.
It’s about:
- Privilege vs people
- Power vs protestors
- System vs survivors
If a minister’s son can walk free after such evidence what about the rest of us?
What’s at Stake?
- India’s image as a democracy
- Farmers’ faith in government
- Trust in police and court
- Rule of law itself
Final Words:
The wheels of justice turn slowly.
But if they stop turning altogether for the rich and powerful we’re no longer a democracy.
Lakhimpur Kheri isn’t just a case file.
It’s a test of India’s soul.
Will truth prevail? Or will power crush it under SUV tyres again?
