Picture used for representational purpose only

MALDA: A 70-year-old man, Dukhu Halder, died on Sunday after he was thrashed with sticks, rods and bricks on Saturday for reportedly protesting against a sex trade racket in Pabnapara. He was rushed to a hospital , but died soon after.

Shyam Halder, a hawker, his wife Chandana and his friend Mantu Halder of Pabnapara were allegedly running the racket at the former's house. Locals said unknown youths would frequent the place throughout the day.

When Dukhu, also a hawker, protested, the trio thrashed him. Neighbours rushed a profusely bleeding Dukhu to Malda Medical College and Hospital. He was then referred to a Kolkata hospital. However, he died on the way.

