Agra [Uttar Pradesh]: In a shocking incident near Kargil Square on Saturday evening (September 20), a 22-year-old woman fought off a man armed with a pistol who attempted to drag her into a car. The accused, later identified as a school teacher from Mathura, allegedly offered her ₹5,000 to accompany him before threatening her with a firearm.

A video of the incident surfaced on Sunday (September 21) and quickly went viral on social media, sparking outrage and praise for the woman’s courage.

The incident

According to police and eyewitness reports, the woman, a resident of Jagdishpur, was out with friends when two men in a car confronted her. The accused allegedly made repeated offers of money for her to enter the vehicle.

“When I refused, he came out of the car, showed me a pistol and said, ‘Will you come with me for ₹5,000?’” the victim told reporters.

When the accused tried to drag her into the car, the woman resisted, kicked him, and even managed to snatch his car keys. Despite being threatened with the weapon, her screams drew a crowd, forcing the man to flee the spot before police arrived.

Police response

The attacker was later identified as Shyamveer Singh, a teacher at a private school in Baldev, Mathura. Police detained him on Sunday, seizing his licensed pistol and vehicle.

DCP City Sonam Kumar confirmed the arrest and stated that a formal request will be made to cancel Singh’s arms licence. Authorities are also searching for his accomplice, who fled the scene.

A formal FIR has been lodged at the Sikandra police station, and the victim’s statement will be recorded in court as part of the investigation.

Public outrage and safety concerns

The viral video has prompted widespread anger on social media, with users calling for strict punishment. Many have also lauded the woman’s presence of mind and bravery in resisting the assault despite being threatened at gunpoint.

Women’s rights activists in Agra said the incident underscores the urgent need for better street surveillance, quicker police patrols, and awareness campaigns to ensure women’s safety in public spaces.

Conclusion

The case has drawn attention to rising safety concerns for women in Uttar Pradesh, with citizens demanding swift action against the accused. Police have assured that strict measures will be taken, including cancellation of the accused’s arms licence and prosecution under relevant criminal laws.