A shocking murder case in Rajkot has taken a tragic turn, revealing that the victim was an innocent bystander caught in a violent dispute over an alleged extra-marital affair. The body of 26-year-old Chandankumar Raut, a migrant worker from Bihar, was discovered with severe injuries on December 18 in Sadak Pipaliya village of Gondal taluka.
Violent Altercation Leads to Fatal Attack
According to police investigations, the incident unfolded on the night of December 17. The victim's distant uncle, Lalu, a native of Banka district in Bihar, was invited for dinner by his friend Rakesh Mandal. The group decided to meet near the Bharudi Toll Plaza. Lalu arrived at the location with his friend Vivek and his nephew Chandankumar Raut.
During the meeting, the situation turned hostile when Rakesh accused Lalu of having an illicit relationship with his brother Naveen's wife. Rakesh demanded to check Lalu's mobile phone, and when Lalu refused, a physical fight broke out. Chandan and Vivek intervened to stop the fight, after which Lalu left the scene.
Innocent Witness Targeted by Mob
After Lalu's departure, the assailants turned their rage towards Chandankumar Raut. Rakesh Mandal allegedly caught hold of Chandan by the neck while his associates began assaulting him. The attack turned deadly as Rakesh stabbed Chandan with a knife, and another accused, Chhotelal Dave, hit him on the head with a stone. Chandan collapsed on the spot from the brutal assault.
Vivek, who witnessed the attack, immediately dialed the police control room. Police personnel reached the scene promptly and rushed Chandan to the Gondal government hospital. Unfortunately, doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Police Investigation and Arrests
The Rajkot police have arrested six persons in connection with the murder: Rakesh Mandal, Chhotelal Dave, Naveen Mandal, Chhotu Mandal, Ganesh Kumar alias Damru, and Neeraj Raut.
Investigating officer Vipulsinh Dodiya provided grim details of the injuries. The victim sustained multiple stab wounds to his abdomen, arms, and legs. He also suffered critical head injuries from the stone attack. The murder weapons, including a knife and a stone, were recovered.
A tragic detail that has emerged is that Chandankumar Raut had come to Rajkot just a month prior to the incident in search of employment. His life was cut short in a violent dispute where he was merely a witness trying to pacify a situation.
The case highlights the dangers faced by migrant workers and the extreme violence that can erupt from personal disputes. The Rajkot police continue their investigation to ensure all aspects of the crime are thoroughly examined.
