The brutal murder of a teenage boy in Delhi has spotlighted a disturbing rise in female gang leaders, notably a young woman known as Zikra, or "Lady Dawn." This incident, which took place on April 17, 2025, has raised questions about the involvement of young women in organized crime and their influence over criminal activities in India's capital.

A Shocking Murder in Broad Daylight
In the narrow lanes of Delhi's Silampur neighborhood, 17-year-old Kunal was stabbed to death in a shocking act of violence witnessed by onlookers who failed to intervene. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Kunal succumbed to his injuries. The attackers, reportedly teenagers, left behind confusion and fear, with the motive behind the murder remaining unclear. However, CCTV footage revealed a woman, later identified as Zikra, who is alleged to have orchestrated the attack.

Zikra, only 20 years old, is said to lead her own gang, comprising young men and juvenile boys. With a penchant for showcasing firearms on social media, she has garnered attention for her audacious lifestyle. Having been arrested previously under the Arms Act, Zikra finds herself entangled in a more serious case now, charged with orchestrating Kunal's murder as a retaliation against a rival gang.

The Gang Landscape in Delhi
Delhi police have identified approximately 95 organized criminal gangs operating within the city. Zikra's ambitions to create the 96th gang reflect an alarming trend where young women are stepping into roles traditionally occupied by men within the criminal underworld. This growing phenomenon highlights a shift in the dynamics of gang leadership, where women are not only participants but also influential figures shaping criminal enterprises.

Zikra's inspiration reportedly comes from Zoya Khan, the wife of incarcerated gangster Hashim Baba, who has been accused of running her husband's criminal empire from behind bars. Zoya's arrest for drug possession underlines the precarious position of women in gangster roles, often facing legal repercussions while navigating a male-dominated environment.

Historical Context and Notable Figures
The history of female gangsters in India is marked by notorious names who have made significant impacts in the underworld. Santok Ben Jadja, known as the godmother of Porbandar, emerged as a key player in Gujarat's criminal landscape following her husband's murder. Her transition from crime to politics illustrates the complex interplay between organized crime and governance.

Similarly, Hassina Parker, sister of infamous gangster Dawood Ibrahim, took over criminal operations after her brother fled the country. Her reputation for ruthlessness earned her the title of godmother of Nagpada, and her life story has even inspired cinematic portrayals.

More recently, Anurrha Chri, also known as Madame Mins, became prominent by marrying gangster Sep or Kalajeri. Her involvement in crime began as a means of financial survival, leading her to work with various gangsters and solidifying her place in the criminal hierarchy.

Conclusion
The emergence of figures like Zikra points to an evolving narrative in India’s organized crime scene, where women are not only participating but are also stepping into leadership roles. As the landscape continues to shift, the implications of their involvement raise critical questions about crime, gender, and societal norms in India. The tragic murder of Kunal serves as a grim reminder of the violent realities of gang culture and the urgent need for effective interventions to curb the rise of criminal activities in urban areas.

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