“Couldn’t Stand Her Independence”: Friend of Radhika Yadav Speaks Out
In a deeply disturbing case of honour killing and domestic violence, 22-year-old tennis player Radhika Yadav was shot dead by her father Deepak Yadav at their residence in Gurgaon on Thursday.
The murder has shocked the nation and sparked a conversation on the deadly consequences of patriarchy, control, and societal shame.
A Rising Tennis Talent Silenced Forever
Radhika Yadav was known in local and national tennis circuits as a dedicated player and a promising coach. She was reportedly cooking in the kitchen when her father fired the fatal shot. Her uncle, Kuldeep Yadav,
who lives on the ground floor of their house, rushed upstairs after hearing the gunshot and found Radhika lying in a pool of blood. He immediately filed an FIR against Deepak Yadav.
Key Highlights of the Incident:
- Radhika was shot inside their home in Gurgaon’s Sector 102.
- Her father used his licensed pistol for the crime.
- The motive allegedly stemmed from “societal pressure and control”.
- FIR claims Deepak faced taunts from villagers about Radhika’s lifestyle and earnings.
- Radhika refused to quit her job as a tennis coach, which led to escalated tensions.
Friend’s Heartbreaking Statement: “She Suffered for Years”
Himanshika Singh Rajput, who claims to be Radhika’s best friend, shared an emotional video on Instagram detailing the emotional abuse Radhika had endured.
“My best friend was murdered by her father. He made her life miserable for years — always criticizing her, always controlling her. They couldn’t tolerate her independence.”
According to Himanshika Singh:
- Radhika’s parents were extremely orthodox.
- They regularly shamed her for wearing shorts, using makeup, or talking to male friends.
- She felt suffocated and constantly had to justify her whereabouts.
- Even innocent music videos she shot were used against her.
- She was often humiliated for being financially independent.
The FIR: Father Felt ‘Ashamed’ of Daughter’s Success
According to the FIR lodged by Kuldeep Yadav, Deepak Yadav was mocked by villagers for living off his daughter’s earnings. He had allegedly asked her to stop coaching at the tennis academy, a request she refused.
FIR Revelations:
- Villagers told Deepak he should be ashamed of being dependent on his daughter.
- They allegedly used slurs and vulgar language about Radhika, suggesting she be “put in dhanda” (a slang for prostitution).
- Deepak could not bear the social humiliation, which is believed to have triggered the murder.
Women Targeted for Independence: A Worrying Trend
Radhika’s murder is not an isolated incident. Across India, women are often punished — even killed — for asserting their freedom, wearing modern clothes, choosing careers, or stepping out of patriarchal norms.
Why Radhika’s Case Must Not Be Forgotten:
- It reflects deep-rooted misogyny that still exists in many Indian families.
- It highlights the social stigma against independent, successful women.
- It underscores the need for mental health and gender sensitivity education.
- It shows how honour-based violence is still very much alive in modern Indian society.
What the Law Says: Punishment for Familial Murder
If convicted, Deepak Yadav could face life imprisonment or the death penalty under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (murder). Additionally, firearms misuse under the Arms Act could lead to further penalties.
Steps the Police Have Taken:
- Deepak Yadav has been taken into custody.
- The murder weapon (his licensed pistol) has been seized.
- Radhika’s body was sent for post-mortem, and final rites were conducted with police supervision.
Public Reaction: Anger and Mourning on Social Media
Social media platforms are flooded with condolence messages, expressions of outrage, and demands for justice.
Social Media Users Say:
- “A girl was killed because she was successful. How many more?”
- “Radhika’s blood is on the hands of patriarchy and societal shame.”
- “This isn’t just a crime; it’s a tragedy rooted in a toxic system.”
Himanshika Singh: “How Many More Women Must Die?”
In her follow-up video posted on Sunday, Himanshika made a chilling observation:
“She was just trying to live her life. But men’s fragile egos can’t take a woman being free. How many women have to die for us to learn?”
Conclusion: Justice for Radhika Yadav Must Be Swift and Strong
The murder of Radhika Yadav has ignited a national debate about women’s rights, social norms, and familial oppression. She was not just a tennis player, but a symbol of freedom for many young women trying to break societal chains.
