A watchman was allegedly murdered by four juveniles who later escaped from a government observation home in Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur district, triggering a massive police search and protests by the victim's family. The incident took place late Sunday night in the Sarkanda police station area.

The deceased has been identified as Narendra Kumar Khande (40), a resident of Araiband village in Takhatpur, who had been working as a watchman at the juvenile observation home for nearly a year.

According to preliminary information, the four juveniles allegedly assaulted the watchman before tying his hands and legs, strangling him and stuffing a cloth into his mouth. After the alleged murder, they escaped from the facility.

Police Launch Manhunt

The incident came to light around 11 pm on Sunday, following which Sarkanda police and senior officials rushed to the observation home.

Police have launched a search operation to trace the four absconding juveniles. Multiple teams have been formed, while investigators are examining CCTV footage, forensic evidence and other technical inputs to reconstruct the sequence of events.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the exact motive behind the killing, saying the investigation is still in its preliminary stages.

Juveniles Faced Serious Charges

According to the victim's family, the juveniles lodged in the observation home were facing serious criminal cases, including murder and rape. They also alleged that one of the accused had already turned 20 years old and was due to be transferred to a central jail.

The allegations have raised fresh questions over security arrangements and the management of inmates at the observation home.

Police have not officially confirmed the specific charges against each of the escaped juveniles.

Family Stages Protest

Following the incident, Narendra Khande's family gathered outside the observation home and staged a protest, refusing to allow the body to be shifted for post-mortem for several hours.

The protesters submitted a 12-point memorandum to the administration, demanding adequate compensation, a government job for one family member, financial support for the family, a high-level inquiry into the incident and strict action against those found responsible.

Family members also accused officials of negligence and demanded accountability for the security lapse that allegedly enabled the juveniles to escape after the murder.

Security Under Scrutiny

The escape of four juveniles after the killing has put the security arrangements at the government-run observation home under scrutiny.

Investigators are examining whether there were procedural lapses or negligence by staff that may have facilitated the escape. Officials are also assessing existing security measures, including surveillance systems and staffing arrangements.

Police Await Post-Mortem Report

Sarkanda police said the investigation is being carried out from every possible angle. Officials stated that the post-mortem report, along with forensic findings and evidence collected from the scene, will help establish the exact cause of death and the sequence of events.

The search for the four absconding juveniles is continuing, while further legal action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation.