Dad kills baby over cost of raising 2nd girl child in Delhi

NEW DELHI, 25 MAY

A 25-year-old man allegedly killed his 10-month-old daughter in Delhi’s Bhalswa Dairy area, police said on Monday, citing financial distress as the motive. The accused, identified as Deepak, allegedly strangled the infant, dumped her body in a septic tank, and later fabricated a kidnapping story to mislead investigators.

According to police, Deepak drugged his wife and elder daughter on Saturday night by lacing their food or drink with an intoxicating substance before committing the crime. He later claimed the child had been kidnapped when he stepped out to buy milk and biscuits on Sunday morning. However, CCTV footage failed to support his account, and he eventually confessed during interrogation, leading to the recovery of the body.

Separately, reports note that raising a child in India involves significant financial planning, with average monthly costs estimated at around Rs 18,000, totalling Rs 7-8 lakh in the first five years. Expenses include food, infant formula, cereals, diapers, and hygiene essentials. Diapers alone may cost Rs 2,000-Rs 5,000 per month, while milk, formula, and baby care products add further recurring costs.