Dhurandhar 2 has stayed firm at the box office even in its sixth week, continuing a rare long theatrical run despite fresh competition and shrinking screens. As per trade tracker Sacnilk, Dhurandhar 2 Box Office Day 42 pushed the film’s India net collection to Rs 1,133.47 crore, with India gross at Rs 1,356.64 crore and overseas earnings at Rs 424.75 crore. Its worldwide total now stands at Rs 1,780 crore-plus.

The film, led by Ranveer Singh and directed by Aditya Dhar, has held steady through its sixth week even as Akshay Kumar’s Bhooth Bangla added pressure at the ticket window. Trade analysts say the film’s sustained run reflects strong recall value and repeat viewership in core Hindi markets.

Baahubali Record Close

With its latest global total, Dhurandhar 2 has moved within touching distance of Baahubali 2: The Conclusion’s long-standing worldwide benchmark of around Rs 1,788 crore. That places the film on the verge of overtaking one of Indian cinema’s most durable box office records.

The gap is now narrow enough for the film to likely cross the Baahubali 2 mark in the coming days, provided weekday collections remain stable and screens are retained through the weekend.

Dangal Still Safe

While Baahubali 2 now looks within reach, Dangal remains a much tougher target. The Aamir Khan-starrer’s worldwide total was powered by an exceptional overseas run, particularly in China, where the sports drama turned into a breakout phenomenon and lifted its global earnings far beyond its domestic base.

That remains the biggest gap for Dhurandhar 2. Though the film has delivered massive business in India, its overseas haul has not expanded at the same pace needed to challenge Dangal’s global dominance. Trade watchers say that is the single biggest reason the film has not yet emerged as the outright highest-grossing Indian title worldwide.

Overseas Gap Widens

The numbers underline the challenge. Dhurandhar 2 has built its run largely on domestic strength, with India gross accounting for the bulk of its total. By contrast, Dangal’s international performance transformed its final global standing.

Industry trackers note that without a major breakout market similar to China, crossing Dangal becomes significantly harder for any Indian film, regardless of domestic dominance. That remains the missing piece in Dhurandhar 2’s record chase.

Competition Slows Pace

The film’s momentum has also slowed in recent weeks. After a massive opening stretch, collections began easing in week two and then tapered further as IPL season, new releases and reduced show counts affected footfalls. On Day 42, the film was running in just over 2,000 shows, a sharp drop from its early peak.

That decline was expected, but it has made the race to Dangal more difficult. The film still has enough momentum to add to its total, but not at the pace needed for a dramatic leap.

Japan Release Push

The next major trigger for Dhurandhar 2 could come from overseas expansion. Sources indicated the makers are preparing a Japan release, a market that has shown steady interest in Indian films over the years. A strong Japan run may not fully replicate Dangal’s China effect, but it could add useful late-stage numbers and extend the film’s global shelf life.

The Barmer-Rishikesh Express, one of the oldest long-distance trains operated under North Western Railway, is facing severe passenger pressure as demand continues to outstrip capacity on the 48-year-old route. The train, which connects western Rajasthan to Uttarakhand, has emerged as the primary rail link for thousands of passengers from Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, especially for religious travel and long-distance journeys.

With no parallel service introduced on the route, the Barmer-Rishikesh Express is now operating under heavy strain, leaving passengers to contend with long waiting lists and overcrowded coaches.

Reservations Under Stress

According to current booking trends, reservations on the Barmer-Rishikesh Express remain full for nearly two months ahead. Railway booking data shows sleeper class waiting lists ranging between 120 and 180 on most dates between late April and June, while third AC waiting lists remain between 40 and 70.

The pressure is more severe in general coaches, where passengers often travel standing for long hours. Many are forced to sit near toilets or on coach entry steps due to a lack of space, highlighting the growing mismatch between demand and available capacity.

Three States Depend

The train serves as a crucial transport link for passengers from Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, many of whom rely on it for pilgrimages to Haridwar and Rishikesh. It is widely used by devotees travelling for Ganga snan, temple visits and ritual ceremonies, including pind daan and asthi visarjan.

With no additional train introduced on the sector, the entire passenger load from these regions continues to fall on a single service. Railway users and local passenger groups say the route has remained underserved despite sustained demand over several years.

A 48-Year Legacy

The Barmer-Rishikesh Express began operations in 1978 and has remained one of the most significant long-distance trains for northern and western India. It was later operated as the Barmer-Haridwar-Kalka Link Express, with linked coaches for Chandigarh and Kalka.

The train used to split at Ambala, allowing passengers direct access to Chandigarh and onward connectivity. After the Kalka link was withdrawn following the Covid-19 period, the entire passenger flow was diverted to the Barmer-Rishikesh section, significantly increasing the load on the existing service.

Reserved Seats Affected

Passengers say overcrowding has now begun affecting even reserved classes. According to regular travellers, sleeper and AC coaches often become congested after the train enters Punjab, with unreserved passengers boarding despite confirmed reservations.

This has led to frequent complaints from passengers who, despite booking confirmed seats well in advance, struggle to access their berths. Railway users say the crowding has made reserved travel increasingly difficult and uncomfortable, particularly during the summer and festive rush.

Railway Cites Constraints

Railway officials have acknowledged the demand pressure but cited operational limitations. Bhupesh Yadav, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Bikaner division, said adding more coaches to the existing train is not feasible at present because the platform at Rishikesh can accommodate only 16 coaches.

He said a proposal would be sent to North Western Railway headquarters for introducing a new train between Bikaner and Haridwar to ease pressure on the route.

Demand For Relief

Passenger groups have renewed their demand for an additional train, arguing that a fresh service is the only practical solution to ease congestion on the Barmer-Rishikesh Express. Lakshman Sharma of the Citizen Struggle Committee for Rail, Suratgarh, said passengers are being forced to travel in extremely difficult conditions because of limited capacity and the absence of a second train. The demand is likely to gain traction as summer travel peaks and religious movement increases further.

Raipur Police have arrested three accused, including a history-sheeter and two juveniles, for allegedly robbing a D-Pharma student and his friend at knifepoint in the Saraswati Nagar area of the city. The accused were held within hours of the crime after police tracked them using CCTV footage and local intelligence, according to officials.

The incident took place late on April 25 and triggered a swift police response after the victims reported being attacked and robbed near Kukurbeda Gurudwara on Ring Road.

Students Targeted On Road

Police identified the victims as Sujal Lader, a D-Pharma student living in Shivanand Nagar, and his friend Vaibhav Yadav. The two were returning home on a scooter from Changorabhatha when they were stopped by three youths at around 2.40 am.

According to the complaint filed at Saraswati Nagar police station, the victims had paused near Kukurbeda Gurudwara to check directions on a mobile map when the accused intercepted them and forced them to stop.

Knife Attack During Loot

Investigators said the accused threatened the two with a knife before assaulting them. During the attack, one of the accused allegedly stabbed Vaibhav Yadav in the left thigh, while another snatched a silver chain worth around Rs 2,500 from Sujal Lader.

The accused also took away an Aadhaar card and other belongings before fleeing the spot. Police said the victims later told investigators that the attackers appeared to know each other well and were calling out names including “Chiku”, “Bholu” and “Akash” during the robbery.

CCTV Trail Leads Police

Based on the complaint, police registered a case under Crime No. 88/26 under Section 309(6) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and relevant provisions of the Arms Act.

Acting on instructions from DCP West Sandeep Patel, a police team scanned CCTV footage from the surrounding area and began tracing the movement of the suspects. During the investigation, one of the accused was identified as Akash Nayak alias JD, a known history-sheeter from the Saraswati Nagar police station limits.

History-Sheeter Among Accused

Police detained Akash Nayak and questioned him in custody. During interrogation, he allegedly confessed to carrying out the robbery along with two juvenile accomplices, officials said.

All three accused were subsequently taken into custody. Police recovered the looted silver chain, the Aadhaar card and a button-operated knife believed to have been used in the attack.

Officials said Akash Nayak has a criminal record and is already named in at least half a dozen previous cases.

Police Tighten Vigil

Police said the quick arrests were made possible through prompt reporting by the victims and rapid technical surveillance. Officers involved in the case said CCTV footage played a critical role in identifying the suspects and reconstructing the sequence of events.

The case has again drawn attention to late-night street crime in Raipur, particularly on isolated stretches of urban roads. Such incidents remain a public interest story as city police face growing pressure to improve patrol visibility and response time in vulnerable pockets.

Probe Continues Further

Police have produced the adult accused in court and initiated due legal procedure in the case involving the two juveniles. Investigators are also examining whether the accused were linked to similar late-night robberies in the area.

According to officials, further verification of the accused’s criminal background is underway and additional charges may be added based on forensic and case evidence.

A youth’s body was found hanging from a tree near Godhar railway station in Rewa district, prompting a police probe into the circumstances surrounding the death. The incident came to light after villagers spotted the dead body near the railway premises in Gram Godhar and alerted the police.

According to officials, the deceased appeared to be between 25 and 30 years old. The body was found in a decomposed state, indicating that the death may have occurred three to four days before it was discovered. The case has added to the Latest News Today cycle in Madhya Pradesh, drawing local attention due to the condition of the body and the lack of immediate identification.

Villagers Alert Police

Residents of the area first noticed the body hanging from a tree close to the railway station and informed Chorhata police. A team reached the spot soon after receiving the information and began preliminary investigation.

Police brought the body down in the presence of local witnesses and initiated panchnama proceedings. Officers then sent the body for post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death and gather forensic inputs that may assist the investigation.

Identification Still Pending

Police said the body was in an advanced state of decomposition, making visual identification difficult. No identification documents were immediately recovered from the spot, according to sources familiar with the inquiry.

The deceased has not yet been identified, and police are now trying to trace his identity through missing person records and local intelligence inputs. Officials said nearby villages and adjoining areas are being scanned for any reports of a missing youth matching the age profile.

Police Begin Inquiry

Chorhata police have registered the case and started an investigation from multiple angles. While the body was found hanging, officials said it would be premature to draw conclusions before the post-mortem report is received.

According to officials, investigators are examining whether the case involves suicide or if any other circumstances led to the death. The police are also gathering details from railway staff, local residents and people who frequent the station area.

Forensic Report Awaited

The post-mortem report is expected to play a key role in determining the nature of the death. Police sources indicated that the report will help establish the probable time of death and whether any external injuries were present on the body.

As per reports, investigators are also assessing the scene for any physical evidence that may indicate foul play. However, no official confirmation has been issued so far regarding the exact cause behind the death.

Public Asked To Help

Police have appealed to the public to assist in identifying the deceased. Officials said anyone with information about a missing man aged around 25 to 30 years, especially from Rewa and nearby areas, should contact Chorhata police station immediately.

This Public Interest Story has gained attention in the region as police continue efforts to establish the identity of the deceased and inform his family. Such cases often rely heavily on local cooperation during the early stages of investigation.

Next Steps In Case

Police are now awaiting the post-mortem findings and further forensic inputs before deciding the next course of action. Once identification is confirmed, investigators are expected to reconstruct the youth’s last known movements and examine possible links to the area.

The Rewa youth found hanging case remains under investigation, with police focusing on identification, forensic evidence and local leads.

A Bilaspur masked mob attack left five members of a family injured after more than 20 armed men allegedly stormed a residential area in Chhattisgarh’s Bilaspur district late at night and assaulted residents with sticks and rods, police said. The incident took place in the Chingrajpara area under Sarkanda police station limits and was reportedly triggered by a dispute over men being stopped from urinating outside a house.

The attack, captured on CCTV cameras installed in the locality, has since surfaced on social media and is being widely circulated. Police have registered a case and launched a search for the accused, who remain absconding.

Family Targeted At Night

According to the complaint filed by the victims, the violence began around midnight when Sanat Sarathi, a resident of Chingrajpara, stepped out for a walk after dinner. He alleged that Vicky Ahirwar and several associates confronted him, abused him over an old dispute and threatened to kill him.

Soon after, the group allegedly attacked him with sticks. Sarathi sustained injuries to his head, hands and legs. His wife, Rekha Sarathi, was also assaulted when she tried to intervene and suffered injuries to her leg.

Three others Bedu Vishwakarma, Soni Singh Thakur and Tilak Das Manikpuri were also injured in the attack. Local residents said four women were among those hurt as panic spread across the neighbourhood.

CCTV Video Emerges

CCTV footage from the area shows a large group of men arriving with their faces covered and carrying sticks. The men can be seen entering the lane together before allegedly attacking the family and others present at the spot.

The video has become central to the police investigation. Officers said they are examining footage from nearby cameras to identify each suspect and establish the sequence of events.

Sources indicated that the visuals clearly show more than 20 men involved in the assault, suggesting the attack was planned rather than spontaneous.

Trigger Behind Violence

Residents told police the attack was linked to an argument that took place two days earlier. According to locals, some men from the accused group were urinating in front of the victim’s house when family members objected.

The objection reportedly led to a heated exchange between both sides. Investigators suspect the accused later returned in a group to settle the score. Police said the assault appears to be a case of retaliation stemming from personal enmity and a neighbourhood dispute.

Police Begin Probe

Sarkanda police have registered an FIR against the accused on charges related to unlawful assembly, assault and criminal intimidation. Officials said teams have been formed to trace those involved in the Bilaspur masked mob attack.

A senior police officer said investigators are verifying the identities of the accused through CCTV footage and local intelligence inputs. Raids are expected in connected areas to detain the suspects. No arrests had been reported till the filing of this report.

Local Fear Grows

The incident has triggered concern among residents in Chingrajpara, where locals said the scale and manner of the attack created fear in the neighbourhood. Residents said the mob entered the locality in a coordinated manner, raising concerns over law and order.

The viral video has intensified public attention, with many on social media demanding swift arrests. The incident has also added to concerns over rising street violence in residential pockets, making it a Public Interest Story in the latest India News Update cycle.

What Happens Next

Police said the investigation will rely heavily on CCTV evidence, witness statements and identification of those seen in the footage. Authorities are expected to make arrests once individual roles are confirmed.

A senior district-level Congress functionary in Chhattisgarh has been arrested in connection with a rape case registered at a women’s police station in Kabirdham district. The development, which comes just 12 days before his scheduled wedding, has drawn significant public and political attention across the state. The Congress leader rape case arrest has become a key talking point in the ongoing India News Update cycle, with details emerging from police and official sources.

According to police officials, the accused was apprehended from Raipur after a complaint was filed by a woman who claimed to have been in a long-term relationship with him. The FIR was registered following her statement, after which legal action was initiated under relevant sections of the law.

Arrest From Raipur

Police teams detained the accused leader from Raipur, where he was reportedly distributing wedding invitations ahead of his scheduled ceremony on May 7. Following the arrest, he was transported to Kabirdham for further legal proceedings. Authorities confirmed that the action was taken after a formal complaint was lodged by the woman at the local women’s police station.

Relationship Allegations Raised

In her complaint, the woman alleged that she had been in a relationship with the accused for nearly a decade. She claimed that the Congress leader allegedly established physical relations with her on the assurance of marriage. However, she further stated that he later refused to marry her and was instead preparing to wed another woman.

Police sources indicated that the complaint formed the basis of the FIR, leading to the Congress leader rape case arrest under applicable provisions of law.

Political Background Profile

The accused is known to be active in local political circles in Kabirdham district. He currently holds a position within a farmer-related wing of the Congress organisation at the district level. As per reports, he had previously been associated with another regional political outfit and had also contested elections in the past before rejoining the Congress party.

Wedding Preparations Ongoing

The arrest came at a time when preparations for his wedding were underway. According to sources, invitation distribution had already begun and several social gatherings had taken place in connection with the upcoming ceremony.

The sudden Congress leader rape case arrest has now disrupted these arrangements, shifting attention from the personal milestone to the legal proceedings currently underway.

Police Investigation Update

Kabirdham police officials confirmed that the complaint was received recently and an FIR was registered without delay. Superintendent-level officers stated that the accused was taken into custody from Raipur after initial verification of allegations.

The woman’s statement has been recorded, and further investigation is underway to examine electronic evidence, communication records, and witness accounts. Authorities have maintained that the case will be handled strictly as per legal procedure.

Court Proceedings Begin

Following his arrest, the accused was produced before the local court. Police have sought further custody for detailed investigation. Judicial authorities are now expected to review the submissions made by law enforcement agencies before deciding the next course of action.

Officials reiterated that due process is being followed and no conclusion has been drawn at this stage beyond the arrest and registration of the case.

Next Steps in Case

The investigation is expected to continue with statements from both parties and supporting witnesses. Police have indicated that additional evidence will be examined in the coming days.

Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Rajasthan Royals by five wickets in a high-scoring IPL 2026 contest in Jaipur on Saturday, chasing down 229 with nine balls to spare despite a stunning century from Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The result pushed Sunrisers Hyderabad to third in the points table, while Rajasthan Royals slipped to fourth on net run rate despite both sides being level on 10 points.

Suryavanshi Shines Bright

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi produced one of the standout innings of IPL 2026, smashing 103 off just 37 balls to power Rajasthan Royals to 228 for 6 in 20 overs at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. The young opener reached his second IPL hundred in only 36 deliveries and struck 12 sixes and five boundaries in a fearless knock that gave Rajasthan early control.

Suryavanshi dominated the Hyderabad attack through the middle overs and gave Rajasthan the platform for a total that appeared match-winning at the halfway mark. His innings kept the pressure on Sunrisers from the outset and quickly became the talking point of the evening.

Rajasthan Post 228

After a brisk start, Rajasthan built their innings around Suryavanshi’s clean hitting. Dhruv Jurel added stability with a fluent 51, while Donovan Ferreira provided late momentum with 33 off 16 balls. The finishing burst ensured Rajasthan crossed the 225-mark and looked set to tighten their hold on the upper half of the table.

For Hyderabad, Eshan Malinga picked up two wickets, while Pat Cummins, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shakib Hussain and Praful Hinge claimed one each. Rajasthan’s aggressive scoring left Hyderabad needing one of the best chases of the season.

Hyderabad Batters Respond

Sunrisers Hyderabad responded with equal intent and kept the required rate under control through most of the chase. Ishan Kishan led the charge with a rapid 74, while Abhishek Sharma struck 57 to give Hyderabad early momentum in the powerplay.

The pair laid the foundation for the chase and ensured Rajasthan’s bowlers remained under pressure. Their attacking approach allowed Hyderabad to stay ahead of the asking rate and denied Rajasthan any sustained control in the field.

Middle Order Delivers

After the openers’ departure, Nitish Kumar Reddy contributed a valuable 36 and Heinrich Klaasen added 29 to keep Hyderabad on course. The middle order absorbed the pressure in the closing overs and completed the chase in 18.3 overs, handing Sunrisers one of their most significant wins of the season.

Rajasthan’s bowling attack struggled to contain the flow of runs on a batting-friendly surface. Jofra Archer and Brajesh Sharma picked up two wickets each, but Hyderabad’s batters continued to find boundaries at key moments.

Points Table Shift

The win lifted Sunrisers Hyderabad to third place in the IPL 2026 standings. Rajasthan Royals dropped to fourth, with both teams locked on 10 points but separated by net run rate. The result added fresh movement to the mid-table race as the league stage enters a crucial phase.

According to match reports, Hyderabad’s superior net run rate proved decisive in the standings after the chase, giving them an edge in an increasingly competitive playoff race.

Playoff Race Tightens

The result underlined Sunrisers Hyderabad’s growing momentum in IPL 2026 and reinforced their batting strength in pressure chases. For Rajasthan Royals, the defeat exposed concerns over bowling execution despite another commanding batting display.

Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders will face off in the second match of Sunday’s IPL double-header, with both teams looking to revive their campaigns in IPL 2026. The match will begin at 7.30 pm at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.

The IPL contest carries added significance as both sides sit in the lower half of the points table and need a win to stay in contention. LSG have won two of their seven matches and are placed ninth, while KKR have managed only one victory from seven outings.

LSG Hold Advantage

Lucknow Super Giants enter the fixture with a clear edge in the head-to-head record. In seven previous IPL meetings between the two sides, LSG have won five, while KKR have secured two victories.

The two teams had already met earlier this season on April 3 in Kolkata, where Lucknow defeated Kolkata by three wickets in a close finish. That result gives the home side a psychological advantage heading into Sunday’s return fixture.

Key Players In Focus

LSG will rely heavily on Mitchell Marsh, who has been their most productive batter this season. Marsh has scored 210 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 134.61, including one half-century.

In the bowling unit, Prince Yadav has emerged as Lucknow’s standout performer. The pacer has taken 13 wickets in seven matches and remains central to LSG’s plans in the middle overs.

For KKR, Angkrish Raghuvanshi has shown consistency with the bat. The young batter has scored 200 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 142.85 and has registered two fifties.

Kartik Tyagi has led KKR’s pace attack with eight wickets in seven games and will be expected to provide early breakthroughs.

Ekana Pitch Report

The Lucknow surface is expected to assist spinners, as has often been the case at the Ekana Stadium. Slow turn and grip could make stroke-making difficult once the ball gets older.

A total of 25 IPL matches have been played at the venue so far. Teams batting second have enjoyed a slight edge, winning 14 matches, while sides batting first have won 10. One game ended without a result.

The venue has also produced extremes. The highest IPL total at Ekana remains KKR’s 235 for 6 against LSG in 2024, while the lowest is LSG’s 108 all out against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2023.

Heat To Test Players

Weather conditions in Lucknow are expected to remain harsh through match day. According to forecasts, the city is likely to witness intense heat and dry conditions, with temperatures ranging between 43 and 27 degrees Celsius.

Wind speeds are expected to hover around 19 kmph. The conditions could test player endurance and may influence team strategy, especially in the second innings.

Likely Playing XIs

Lucknow Super Giants are expected to field Mitchell Marsh, Ayush Badoni, Rishabh Pant, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Mukul Choudhary, Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, Prince Yadav, Digvesh Rathi, Mayank Yadav and Himmat Singh.

Kolkata Knight Riders are likely to go with Tim Seifert, Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Cameron Green, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Rovman Powell, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi and Varun Chakaravarthy.

A 26-year-old woman in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district has accused a man of repeatedly sexually assaulting her on the pretext of marriage, leading to his arrest in the latest Raigarh rape case reported from the region. Police said the accused allegedly established physical relations with the woman for nearly one-and-a-half years after promising to marry her, but later refused when she became pregnant.

The case was registered at Tamnar police station after the survivor approached police earlier this week and detailed the allegations against the accused, identified as Prithviraj Chauhan, a resident of Saraidipa village in Raigarh district.

Relationship Turned Criminal

According to officials, the woman told police that she came in contact with Chauhan around two-and-a-half years ago. The two gradually developed a personal relationship, which later turned into an intimate one.

During the course of their relationship, the accused allegedly assured the woman that he would marry her and, on that basis, initiated physical relations with her. The woman alleged that Chauhan continued to sexually exploit her for nearly 18 months while repeatedly reinforcing the promise of marriage.

Police said the survivor stated in her complaint that she consented to the relationship because she believed the accused intended to marry her.

Pregnancy Triggered Dispute

The matter escalated when the woman informed Chauhan that she had become pregnant and asked him to formalise the relationship through marriage. According to the complaint, the accused initially avoided the conversation and continued to delay any decision.

As per police records, Chauhan later refused to marry her altogether. The woman then informed her family about the incident and approached police on their advice.

Investigators said the complaint was registered after preliminary verification, following which a case was filed under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to rape and deception.

Police Action Taken

Tamnar police moved swiftly after the complaint was filed and conducted a raid at the accused’s residence. Chauhan was taken into custody and formally arrested.

Police produced the accused before a local court, which remanded him to judicial custody. He has since been sent to jail, officials said.

Investigators indicated that further inquiry is underway and statements of those connected to the case are being recorded as part of the ongoing probe.

Officials Issue Warning

Raigarh Senior Superintendent of Police Shashi Mohan Singh said crimes involving women would be dealt with firmly and without delay. According to officials, the district police have been instructed to ensure swift and sensitive handling of such complaints.

He said offences involving sexual exploitation and false promises of marriage are treated as serious crimes and strict legal action would follow in every such case supported by evidence.

Officials also urged women facing similar abuse to report such incidents without hesitation.

Legal And Social Impact

The Raigarh rape case has again drawn attention to cases involving alleged sexual exploitation under the promise of marriage, an issue that continues to surface in crime reports across states. Legal experts have repeatedly underlined that consent obtained through deception can attract criminal liability if investigators establish fraudulent intent from the outset.

Such cases also raise concerns around delayed reporting, social stigma and the pressure survivors face before approaching law enforcement. Police officials said timely reporting remains critical for evidence collection and prosecution.

Investigation Continues

Police said the investigation remains active and further legal action will depend on medical evidence, witness statements and case documentation. Authorities are expected to file a detailed case diary before the court in the coming days.

Indore Police have uncovered a finance company vehicle seizure racket in which private agents allegedly used leaked borrower data to illegally seize vehicles from loan defaulters and demand money for their return. One accused has been arrested in the case, while two others remain absconding, police said.

The case surfaced in Indore’s Hiranagar area after a local resident alleged that his financed motorcycle was forcibly taken away by three men who claimed to be acting on behalf of a finance company. Police said the accused were not authorised recovery agents but were working on commission and allegedly targeting borrowers whose instalments were overdue.

Complaint Triggers Probe

According to officials, the case came to light after Rajiv Nagar resident Shakeel Khan filed a complaint with Hiranagar police. Khan, a mechanic by profession, told police that he had purchased a motorcycle in 2025 through vehicle finance from L&T.

He alleged that while returning home from Aurobindo Hospital two days ago, three men intercepted him near the MR-10 area and accused him of defaulting on loan instalments. The men then forcibly took away his motorcycle and left the spot.

Fraud Recovery Tactic

Khan later approached the finance company office to verify whether the vehicle had been lawfully repossessed. Officials there reportedly told him that no authorised staff member had seized the motorcycle.

This raised suspicion and prompted Khan to begin tracing the vehicle on his own. During his search, he reportedly spotted one of the men riding the motorcycle. When confronted, the accused allegedly demanded money in exchange for returning the vehicle.

Police said this established that the seizure was not part of any lawful recovery process but an extortion attempt carried out under the guise of loan recovery.

One Accused Arrested

Acting on the complaint, Hiranagar police launched an investigation and arrested Neeraj Lodhi. During questioning, Lodhi allegedly admitted that he and two associates had been identifying vehicle owners with pending instalments and forcibly taking possession of their vehicles.

Police said the accused were working on commission and were not officially employed by any finance company. Investigators suspect they were part of an informal recovery network operating outside legal procedures and using borrower vulnerability for financial gain.

The two other accused named by Lodhi are currently absconding. Police teams have been deployed to trace and arrest them, as per reports.

Data Leak Under Lens

A key part of the investigation now centres on how the accused obtained sensitive borrower information. Police said preliminary findings suggest that lists of loan defaulters were being shared with the accused through unofficial channels.

According to investigators, the men received details of customers who had defaulted on instalments, including contact numbers and vehicle information, and used that data to identify and target victims.

Police are now examining whether insiders linked to finance companies or third-party recovery networks leaked customer records. Officials indicated that those found responsible for sharing data could also be made accused in the case.

Recovery Rules Questioned

The case has raised fresh questions over loan recovery practices and the role of unauthorised agents in vehicle repossession. Under existing norms, finance companies must follow due legal process while recovering financed assets and cannot permit coercive seizure by unauthorised individuals.

Any use of force, intimidation or unlawful repossession falls outside regulated recovery procedures and may attract criminal liability. The latest case is likely to draw scrutiny from regulators and law enforcement over informal recovery arrangements and borrower data handling.

Probe Expands Further

Police said the investigation is now focused on identifying the full network behind the finance company vehicle seizure racket, including those who supplied borrower data and enabled illegal recoveries.Officials are also examining whether similar incidents have taken place in other parts of the city.

Raipur suicide case took a tragic turn after a 25-year-old man allegedly died by suicide in the city’s Purani Basti area, leaving behind a note in which he accused his girlfriend of betrayal and emotional distress. Police have seized the note and the deceased’s mobile phone and started an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.

Incident in Raipur

A 25-year-old man was found hanging in his room in Raipur’s Bhathagaon locality on the night of April 24, according to police. The deceased, identified as Komal Verma, lived with his family and worked at the airport, officials said.

The incident came to light on the morning of April 25 when family members found him hanging inside his room and alerted police. The case falls under the Purani Basti police station limits.

Suicide Note Found

Police recovered a handwritten suicide note from the room during the initial investigation. In the note, Komal Verma stated that no family member had pressured him and held his girlfriend responsible for his decision, alleging emotional betrayal during their five-year relationship.

According to officials, the note mentions that the woman had allegedly remained in contact with several other men and repeatedly misled him when confronted. The deceased also claimed he had evidence on his mobile phone, which police have now taken into custody for examination.

Relationship Under Probe

Investigators said the case is being examined from the angle of a personal relationship dispute. The woman named in the note has been identified as Devki Sahu. Police are verifying the claims made in the note and reviewing the contents of the deceased’s mobile phone as part of the inquiry.

As per reports, Komal and the woman had allegedly been in a relationship since December 2019. The note refers to repeated disputes and allegations of dishonesty, which police believe may have contributed to the deceased’s mental state.

Family Informed Police

Komal Verma was originally from Khaparadih village in Baloda Bazar district under Suhela police station limits. He had been living in Raipur with his family for work.

Police said his father and younger brother were sleeping on the terrace on the night of the incident, while his mother had gone to attend a wedding. The family became aware of the incident the following morning and informed the local police station.

Police Begin Inquiry

Purani Basti police reached the spot after receiving information and sent the body for post-mortem examination. The body was later handed over to the family.

Officials said the suicide note and digital evidence are being examined. According to police sources, statements of family members and others connected to the case will be recorded as part of the investigation. No arrests have been made so far, and police have not confirmed any criminal liability at this stage.

Legal Angle Emerges

Police officials indicated that the contents of the suicide note alone may not be sufficient for immediate legal action and that corroborative evidence will be required before any further step is taken.

Investigators are expected to examine whether the allegations in the note point to abetment, emotional coercion or any other legally relevant factor. Authorities said action, if any, will depend on evidence collected during the probe.

The Jabalpur murder case has exposed a planned contract killing allegedly executed over a Rs 1 crore land dispute linked to agricultural property in Chhattisgarh. Police said civil engineer Clarence Atkins, also known as Raja, was shot dead on the morning of April 23 while returning home after dropping his five-year-old son to school in Jabalpur.

Investigators said the murder was allegedly orchestrated by the victim’s uncle and cousin, who hired shooters, conducted surveillance and tracked his movement before carrying out the attack in broad daylight.

Shot Near Crossing

According to officials, the 39-year-old was riding back home when two assailants on a black motorcycle intercepted him near Shiv Shakti Dawakhana in Ranjhi around 7.50 am. One of the attackers fired at close range, hitting Clarence in the head.

He collapsed on the spot, while the attackers fled towards Ranjhi. Police teams reached the scene soon after and began collecting evidence from the crime spot.

CCTV Trail Cracked

The investigation gained pace after police scanned CCTV footage from nearby areas and traced two suspects riding a black motorcycle without a registration number. Officers then mapped the escape route and began tracking those linked to the movement of the bike.

According to police, the attackers had already positioned themselves in the area and were waiting for Clarence to return home. Surveillance footage and local inputs helped investigators reconstruct the sequence of events.

Land Dispute Motive

Police said the motive behind the murder was a dispute over nearly 15 acres of agricultural land in Raipur, estimated to be worth around Rs 1 crore. Clarence had reportedly filed a civil suit over the property and secured a stay order seeking cancellation of a disputed registry.

Officials said this had triggered tensions within the family. Sources indicated that the victim had been pressured to withdraw the case and was allegedly threatened after refusing to back down.

Contract Killing Plan

Police said the murder was planned in advance by the victim’s uncle, identified as Vikas alias Baba alias Rinku Nelson, and his son Prince Nelson. Investigators alleged the duo hired multiple men for separate roles, including surveillance, tracking and execution.

As per reports, two accused first conducted reconnaissance near Clarence’s residence and alerted the shooters once he stepped out. The gunmen then followed him on another motorcycle and opened fire when they found an opportunity near the crossing.

Two Accused Arrested

Acting on a tip-off, police arrested two accused on Saturday. The first, Tejbal alias Arun Raikwar, 20, was detained near Deendayal Chowk. His interrogation led police to the second accused, Mohit Thakur, 20, who was arrested near Barela toll plaza.

Police said both men played a role in tracking the victim before the shooting. The two accused are now in custody and are being questioned for further leads.

Bikes, Phones Seized

Superintendent of Police Sampat Upadhyay said police seized two motorcycles, including a high-end Harley-Davidson allegedly used during the operation, and two mobile phones from the accused. Officials said the Harley-Davidson, reportedly worth around Rs 15 lakh, was used during surveillance and movement linked to the murder.

Police are still searching for the remaining accused, including Prince Nelson, Arpit Kushwaha and Vikas Nelson, who are believed to be central to the conspiracy.

Probe Widens Ahead

The Jabalpur murder case has drawn sharp attention because of the methodical planning, family link and contract killing angle. Investigators are now examining financial transactions, call records and movement patterns to establish the full chain of conspiracy. Police said more arrests are likely as the investigation expands.