The murder of Jhansi’s first woman auto-rickshaw driver has sent shockwaves across Uttar Pradesh, after police revealed that what initially appeared to be a road accident was in fact a planned shooting.

Anita Chaudhary (45) was found dead beneath her overturned auto-rickshaw in the Civil Lines area of Jhansi in the early hours of Monday. Police first believed she had died in an accident after receiving a PCR call reporting a vehicle overturn. However, a post-mortem later confirmed that Anita had suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head.

Autopsy reveals murder

According to police officials, Anita was taken to hospital after being found bleeding and motionless on the road, where she was declared dead on arrival. The autopsy report revealed the shocking truth, prompting police to register a murder case.

The victim was later identified as Anita Chaudhary, who had made history as Jhansi’s first woman auto-rickshaw driver. In December 2021, she had been felicitated by the Uttar Pradesh Police for breaking gender barriers and inspiring other women to take up driving as a livelihood.

Relationship dispute suspected motive

Police suspect that the murder was linked to a strained personal relationship. Investigations revealed that Anita had previously been in a relationship with Mukesh Jha (45), but had cut ties with him around four months ago.

Officials believe her refusal to continue the relationship led to repeated harassment and ultimately her killing. Anita had earlier lodged a complaint against Mukesh accusing him of intimidation and harassment, following which an FIR was registered. He was not arrested at the time as the charges carried a punishment of less than seven years.

CCTV trail and manhunt

Police said CCTV footage showed a car following Anita’s auto-rickshaw on Sunday night, hours before her death. The vehicle was later recovered near Barua Sagar dam in Jhansi. Mukesh Jha has been named the prime accused but remains absconding.

His son and brother-in-law have been taken into custody for questioning. A reward of ₹25,000 has been announced for information leading to Mukesh’s arrest.

A life that inspired many

Senior police officials said Anita’s murder is being investigated from all angles. Her death has triggered outrage among local residents and women’s groups, who remember her as a symbol of courage and self-reliance.

Police assured that strict action would be taken and that the accused would be brought to justice.