New Delhi: A heartbreaking scene unfolded in northeast Delhi’s Seelampur on Thursday evening as a 17-year-old boy, Kunal, was brutally stabbed to death in what police are calling a revenge killing. The murder has ignited protests and heightened tensions in the densely populated locality.

A Young Life Cut Short

Kunal, a teenager described by his family as kind-hearted and cheerful, had stepped out from his home to buy milk and samosas when he was ambushed by two teenagers just meters from his doorstep. In a shocking display of street violence, the assailants stabbed Kunal multiple times before fleeing the scene. Despite severe injuries and massive blood loss, Kunal attempted to stagger towards a nearby clinic. Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene as the boy, drenched in blood, collapsed just a few steps from safety. “He had the courage to try and walk after being stabbed,” said Mohsin, a local resident who arrived moments too late.

An Act of Revenge

Police investigations have revealed that the murder was linked to an incident from November last year. One of the suspects had been stabbed and injured during an altercation and allegedly blamed Kunal for it. Thursday’s attack was the chilling culmination of that simmering grudge. Authorities have identified the two teenage suspects, who are currently absconding. Ten police teams have been deployed in a citywide manhunt. “We will track them down,” a senior officer assured.

A Notorious Name Behind It

Adding a sinister dimension to the case is the involvement of a local woman, Zikra, who police say conspired with the killers. Zikra, previously arrested for brandishing weapons on Instagram, is reportedly linked to the Shoaib-Mastan gang — a criminal network known to wield considerable influence in Seelampur. Zikra was arrested on charges of abetment and conspiracy. She allegedly incited the attackers and played a key role in the planning of the murder. Locals say she and her brothers have long terrorized the neighborhood, flaunting weapons and making threats with impunity.

A Mother’s Plea for Justice

The victim’s mother, devastated and inconsolable, spoke to reporters amid protests in the area. “My son didn’t deserve to die like this,” she wept. “They’ve been threatening us for years. Zikra and her gang think they can do whatever they want. I want justice for my child.” Kunal’s killing has sparked outrage across Seelampur, with residents demanding stricter policing and action against local gangs. Bloodstains remain on the lane where the boy fell, a grim reminder of the violence that unfolded there.

Gang Violence and Social Media Glorification

Police sources revealed that Zikra, once a bouncer for jailed gangster Hashim Baba’s wife, was known for posting images with firearms and gang members on Instagram, where she boasts over 15,000 followers. Her online notoriety and offline intimidation tactics had made her a feared figure in the locality. The incident has once again raised alarms over the growing culture of criminal glorification on social media and the influence of gang networks over vulnerable neighborhoods.

Ongoing Investigation

A case has been registered under Section 103 (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police continue their search for the absconding suspects while stepping up security in the area to prevent further unrest.

Community in Mourning

Residents of Seelampur, shocked and grieving, have gathered to demand swift action and justice. As one neighbor put it: “This could’ve happened to anyone’s son. Enough is enough.”