Aradhna had won the by-election by a narrow but decisive margin. The party workers erupted in celebration the moment the results were declared. Confetti, slogans, and the blaring of loudspeakers filled the air outside the counting centre. Within an hour the victory procession was ready. An open jeep waited at the gate, decorated with garlands and party flags. Aradhna stepped into it wearing a simple cream saree with a wide red border, the same one she had worn for the final day of campaigning. Five bodyguards in plain black shirts climbed in around her. The crowd roared as the jeep began to move slowly through the packed streets.

The first kilometre passed in the usual way. People threw flowers. Party workers ran alongside shouting her name. Aradhna raised her hand and smiled, still flushed from the win. Then the senior-most bodyguard, a thick-set man named Raju, leaned close and spoke into her ear.