The incident occurred between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., when 21-year-old Chhatrapati Singh allegedly attacked his neighbours with a sharp-edged weapon. The deceased have been identified as Phool Kumari Singh (50) and Kemala Singh (65). Both sustained fatal injuries at the scene, police said.
According to investigators, the accused targeted the victims at their residence in the village. Hearing the commotion, two neighbours — Sumitra Singh and Rambhajan Singh — rushed to intervene. They were also attacked and suffered serious injuries. Both are currently undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital.
Superintendent of Police Manish Khatri said the accused has been taken into custody. “Initial findings suggest the involvement of superstition-related motives. Certain worship materials were recovered from near the bodies. However, we are examining all possible angles before drawing conclusions,” he said.
Police and forensic teams reached the spot soon after receiving information about the double murder. The area was cordoned off and evidence collected from the crime scene. Worship-related items found near the bodies have been seized for examination as part of the investigation.
While authorities have not officially confirmed the motive, local sources indicated that suspicions rooted in black magic practices may have triggered the assault. Investigators are questioning family members and villagers to understand the background of the dispute and whether there were prior tensions between the accused and the victims.
The brutal attack sent shockwaves through Atarwa village, with residents gathering in large numbers as news spread. Police deployed additional personnel to maintain order and prevent unrest.
Cases involving violence linked to superstition remain a concern in several rural pockets of the state. Officials reiterated that stringent legal action would be taken against those found guilty and urged citizens not to give in to unverified beliefs or rumours.
A case of murder and attempt to murder has been registered against the accused. Police said further details would emerge after interrogation and forensic analysis.
The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination. Authorities are expected to record statements from the injured once their medical condition stabilises.
