Udaipur — The tragic death of 10th-grade student Devraj following a stabbing incident has sent shockwaves through Udaipur, with the Mochi community and other residents demanding strict punishment for the accused minor. The incident, which took place in a government school, has left the city grappling with grief, anger, and a call for justice.

Devraj, who had been hospitalized at MB Hospital on August 16 after being critically injured in the stabbing, succumbed to his injuries on August 19 evening. His death has ignited a wave of demands for accountability, with community members calling for the harshest possible punishment for the minor responsible.

On Tuesday morning, under heavy police security, Devraj’s body was handed over to his family. The funeral procession began from his home in Kheradiwada and moved towards the Ashok Nagar cremation ground. Hundreds of mourners joined the procession, expressing their sorrow and frustration. At the crematorium, the mood was somber but charged with demands for justice.

Community members voiced their concerns that the accused, despite being a minor, should not be given any leniency. "In this age of internet and social media, even a 10th grader is aware of the consequences of their actions," said one community leader. "This crime is too severe to be excused by age. The boy knew what he was doing when he brought a knife to school and fatally attacked his classmate."

The demands extended beyond just the minor. Some community members insisted that the accused’s family should also be held responsible, citing a failure in upbringing as a contributing factor to the crime. "The parents should face charges as well. They are equally responsible for their son's actions," another mourner added.

The Mochi community, in a strong stance, urged the city's Bar Association not to defend the minor. They argued that offering a defense would be a betrayal of justice. "He deserves no mercy," the community declared in unison, calling for the highest punishment to be meted out to the young offender.

The city’s administration and police were on high alert throughout the day, ensuring that the funeral and surrounding events proceeded peacefully. Udaipur has been under strict security measures since the incident, with additional police forces deployed across the city and Section 144 imposed to prevent any gatherings that could lead to unrest.

Officials, including Divisional Commissioner Rajendra Bhatt, Inspector General Ajaypal Lamba, District Collector Arvind Poswal, and Superintendent of Police Yogesh Goyal, monitored the situation closely, ensuring that law and order were maintained.

While the city mourns, the call for justice continues to echo across Udaipur. The district administration had earlier closed schools and colleges as a precautionary measure, but they are set to reopen on Wednesday, signaling a slow return to normalcy. However, the demands for severe punishment for the minor and accountability for his family remain at the forefront of the community’s concerns.

As Udaipur comes to terms with this tragedy, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Devraj. The incident has left a deep mark on the city, and the outcome of this case will be closely watched by all.