BENGALURU: A late-night errand for milk turned violent in DJ Halli’s Shampura area on August 22, leaving three men hospitalised with machete wounds. The incident began with taunts directed at a young homemaker over her appearance and escalated into a brutal assault involving dangerous weapons.

Taunts turn into violence outside home

According to the complaint lodged by Shobha (29), she had stepped out around 10 pm with her husband Mohan to buy milk for her unwell son and her visiting brothers, Prabhu and Madan. On their way to a nearby shop, three young men allegedly mocked her, calling her “hallu, hallu” (“teeth, teeth” in Kannada) because of her buck teeth.

Though disturbed, the couple initially ignored the remarks. But on their return, Mohan overheard more comments and objected, leading to a heated argument.

Attack with machete leaves three injured

When Mohan tried to disengage and walk away, the trio followed them to their home and allegedly attacked him near the doorstep. Hearing the commotion, Shobha’s brothers rushed out to help but were targeted as well.

  • Prabhu sustained severe injuries, with one finger on his right hand nearly severed.

  • Madan was slashed on his right hand.

  • Mohan received cuts on his face and left hand.

    • The assailants then fled the scene, threatening further harm. Neighbours gathered after the attack, while Shobha and her parents rushed the injured to Dr BR Ambedkar Hospital for treatment.

    Police register case under new criminal code

    The following morning, Shobha filed a complaint at DJ Halli Police Station. A senior officer confirmed that the accused, believed to be 18–22 years old, are absconding but identified through preliminary investigation.

    A case has been registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 118 for voluntarily causing hurt or grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means.

    Investigation and community concern

    Local residents expressed concern over rising incidents of street harassment and violent retaliation in the area. Police have intensified patrols and assured quick arrests of the suspects.