The Chhattisgarh High Court has delivered a significant ruling in the Virat kidnapping case, upholding the life imprisonment awarded to all five accused. The division bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal dismissed the appeals filed by the convicts, confirming the trial court’s earlier judgment.

The court observed that the crime was not an isolated act but a pre-planned conspiracy aimed at extorting ransom. It further stated that such offences have a wider impact beyond the victim, shaking public confidence and creating a sense of insecurity.

Crime That Shook Bilaspur

The case dates back to April 2019, when six-year-old Virat Saraf, son of businessman Vivek Saraf, was abducted from outside his residence in Bilaspur. The incident occurred in a busy residential area, creating immediate panic among locals. Within 24 hours of the kidnapping, the family received a ransom call demanding ₹6 crore for the safe release of the child. The threatening call intensified fear within the family, prompting them to approach the police without delay.

Planned Kidnapping Conspiracy

Investigations later revealed that the kidnapping was not spontaneous but carefully planned. Police found that the accused had been tracking potential targets and eventually selected Virat after earlier plans involving another relative’s child could not be executed. According to the findings, the accused group included multiple individuals who coordinated the operation. The conspiracy involved surveillance of the victim’s movements, use of a vehicle without a number plate, and multiple transfer points to avoid detection.

Role of Close Relative

One of the most shocking revelations in the Virat kidnapping case was the involvement of a close family member. The investigation identified the child’s paternal aunt as the alleged mastermind behind the crime. Reports indicated that she was under heavy financial debt and allegedly planned the kidnapping to resolve her monetary crisis. She is believed to have coordinated with associates to execute the abduction and manage ransom negotiations. This aspect of the case added a disturbing dimension, as trust within the family was exploited for criminal gain.

Execution of Abduction

On April 20, 2019, the child was playing outside his home when the accused arrived in a white car without a registration number. One of the accused forcibly picked up the child and placed him inside the vehicle. The child was then moved across locations, including a railway station, before being shifted to another vehicle. Eventually, he was taken to a secluded house where he was kept hostage under strict supervision. The operation was executed in a manner intended to avoid identification, indicating prior planning and coordination among the accused.

Ransom Demand and Threats

Soon after the abduction, the victim’s father received a ransom call demanding ₹6 crore. The callers threatened that failure to pay the amount would result in harm to the child. The demand created panic in the family, but they immediately informed law enforcement authorities. A formal complaint was registered at the local police station, triggering a large-scale investigation.

Police Investigation and Rescue

Police teams launched an intensive search operation across multiple locations. Technical surveillance played a crucial role in tracking the suspects. Investigators monitored call detail records and traced mobile locations that moved across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Chhattisgarh. After nearly six days of continuous effort, the police successfully located the child in the Jarhabhata area of Bilaspur. The child was rescued safely during a raid on a locked house. One of the accused was arrested on the spot, while others were subsequently detained.

Trial Court Findings

During the trial, the prosecution presented extensive evidence, including electronic records, witness testimonies, and forensic inputs. A total of 54 witnesses were examined in court. The trial court concluded that the kidnapping was executed solely for ransom and involved clear criminal intent. Based on the evidence, all five accused were convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. The convicts later challenged this judgment in the High Court, seeking relief and reduction in sentence.

High Court Observations

While reviewing the case, the High Court strongly endorsed the findings of the trial court. The bench observed that the prosecution had successfully established the chain of events beyond reasonable doubt. The court highlighted that technical evidence, including call records, CCTV footage, and forensic inputs, played a key role in proving the involvement of all accused. It further noted that crimes involving children demand stricter scrutiny, as they directly affect public safety and trust in society.

Crime Impact on Society

The court emphasized that kidnapping of minors for ransom is among the most serious offences under criminal law. It stated that such acts not only traumatize families but also create widespread fear in the community. According to the bench, allowing leniency in such cases could send the wrong message and weaken deterrence against similar crimes.

With the dismissal of all appeals, the High Court has confirmed the life imprisonment sentences awarded to the convicts. The judgment effectively closes a long legal battle that began with the 2019 incident. The court’s decision reinforces the position that crimes involving children and ransom demands will be dealt with firmly under law.

-----------

The Chhattisgarh LPG scam involving alleged theft and illegal sale of gas worth nearly ₹1.5 crore in Mahasamund district has triggered a major crackdown by police authorities. The investigation has intensified after the arrest of District Food Officer Ajay Yadav, who is now on a three-day remand for detailed questioning. According to officials, the case involves systematic siphoning of LPG from sealed tankers, forged documentation and a coordinated financial network involving officials, agency operators and traders.

Arrest and Remand

Police have identified Ajay Yadav as a key accused in the Chhattisgarh LPG scam, alleging his role as a central planner in the illegal diversion of government-seized gas. He has been booked under charges of criminal conspiracy, fraud, document forgery and causing financial loss to the state exchequer.

Investigators said around 92 tonnes of LPG was allegedly diverted and sold illegally, generating transactions worth nearly ₹80 lakh. Yadav, along with co-accused agency operator Pankaj Chandrakar and trader Manish Choudhary, was produced in court earlier this week.

Money Trail Exposed

The financial investigation has revealed a structured distribution of proceeds in the Chhattisgarh LPG scam. Police sources indicate that out of the illegal earnings, nearly ₹50 lakh is linked to Ajay Yadav, ₹20 lakh to Pankaj Chandrakar and ₹10 lakh to Manish Choudhary.

However, officials have admitted that large portions of the alleged cash remain untraced. Authorities are now examining bank records, property investments and business expansions to trace the remaining money flow.

CCTV Evidence Found

One of the strongest breakthroughs in the Chhattisgarh LPG scam is the recovery of CCTV footage showing meetings between the accused. Police have obtained visuals from a roadside dhaba where Ajay Yadav, Pankaj Chandrakar and Manish Choudhary allegedly held a late-night planning session. Another footage captured their inspection of gas capsules at a police station yard. Investigators believe these meetings played a crucial role in finalising the illegal transfer and sale strategy.

Raid and Seizures

Multiple raids conducted in connection with the Chhattisgarh LPG scam have led to the recovery of documents and consumer goods purchased using suspected illegal funds. However, no major cash recovery has been made so far.

Officials said electronic devices, financial records and agency documents are being analysed. Authorities also raided residences linked to the accused, where they recovered purchase records of appliances and limited cash transactions.

Gas Theft Operation

The core of the Chhattisgarh LPG scam lies in the alleged diversion of LPG from sealed tankers originally seized in December 2025. Police said around six gas capsules containing over 100 metric tonnes were initially secured by authorities.

Investigators claim that after a coordinated meeting in March 2026, the accused devised a plan to siphon gas during custody delays. Over the next few days, nearly 92 tonnes of LPG was allegedly emptied and transferred to private networks. Officials further said that delayed weighing of cylinders and lack of immediate inspection helped facilitate the large-scale theft.

Fake Billing Pattern

Documents seized during the Chhattisgarh LPG scam investigation indicate serious irregularities in billing records. While official records show purchase of around 47 tonnes of LPG, sales of over 107 tonnes were recorded in the same period. This mismatch has raised suspicions of illegal supply chains and unaccounted distribution. Authorities also found that several transactions were conducted without proper invoices, indicating a parallel cash-based system.

Probe Expansion

The Chhattisgarh LPG scam probe has now expanded beyond the three main accused. Police are examining the role of associates, relatives and business partners linked to property purchases and financial transactions since late 2025.

Officials indicated that further arrests and departmental actions are likely as the investigation progresses. CCTV footage, digital records and call data analysis are being used to map the wider network. Authorities have not ruled out action against additional officials if evidence confirms deeper administrative involvement.

What Next in Probe

The investigation team is now focusing on tracing the remaining illegal proceeds and identifying the full supply chain involved in the Chhattisgarh LPG scam. Agencies are also verifying whether similar irregularities occurred in other districts. According to police officials, further forensic analysis and financial audits will determine the scale of the operation and accountability of each accused.

--------

Surajpur kidnapping case: Ex-driver planned abduction for ransom

In the Surajpur kidnapping case, police say a former driver orchestrated the abduction of a 62-year-old woman, demanding ₹22 lakh ransom before arrest

A 62-year-old woman who was abducted from her home in Surajpur has been rescued safely, with police revealing that the alleged mastermind behind the kidnapping was the victim’s former driver. The accused, along with two associates, is said to have plotted the crime to extort ₹22 lakh, reportedly motivated by knowledge of the family’s retirement savings.

The incident, which unfolded late last month, has drawn attention due to the level of planning involved and the familiarity the accused had with the victim’s household.

Incident unfolds at home

According to police, the abduction took place on April 29 in Sarnapara village under the Surajpur Kotwali police station limits. The victim, identified as Lalita Kujur, was alone at home when the incident occurred.

Her husband, who had travelled to Ambikapur for vehicle repairs with a driver, returned in the afternoon to find the house ransacked. There were signs of a struggle, and blood stains were visible at a few spots, officials said.

Shortly after, a call was received from the woman’s phone. An unidentified caller demanded ₹22 lakh for her safe release. The phone was switched off soon after.

Police launch search

Senior officers treated the case as urgent. According to officials, three teams were formed to track down the abductors and locate the victim. Search operations were carried out across nearby areas, and initial leads were examined.

During the course of investigation, suspicion fell on a former driver who had earlier worked for the family. Police detained the suspect, identified as Roshan Devangan, for questioning.

“During interrogation, he admitted involvement in the crime,” a police officer said, adding that further details emerged soon after.

Familiarity led to crime

Investigators said the accused had worked with the family for nearly 18 months and was aware that the victim’s husband had retired from South Eastern Coalfields Limited and received a substantial settlement.

“According to officials, the accused planned the kidnapping after learning about the retirement funds,” a senior officer said.

He allegedly roped in two accomplices, including one identified as Sheikh Ishu. The group then visited the victim’s house under the pretext of asking for water. Once inside, they overpowered her, tied her hands and legs, and covered her face with tape.

Ransom demand and escape

The woman was then transported on a motorcycle to a location in Dumaria. From there, the accused used her phone to contact her husband and issue the ransom demand.

Police said the abductors later switched off the phone and moved locations to avoid detection.

However, with police teams intensifying patrols and search operations, the accused reportedly panicked.

Victim abandoned midway

Fearing arrest, the abductors abandoned the woman along a bypass road between Dumaria and Chandarpur. Before fleeing, they removed the tape and restraints and allegedly attempted to destroy evidence by burning them.

Despite being injured, the woman managed to reach a nearby house and informed locals, who then alerted her family and the police.

She was immediately taken to the district hospital in Surajpur for treatment. Officials said her condition is stable.

Arrests and seizure

Following the breakthrough, police arrested Roshan Devangan and later apprehended Sheikh Ishu while he was allegedly attempting to flee towards Bilaspur. A third accused remains absconding, and search efforts are ongoing.

Authorities also seized a motorcycle, a scooter, and two mobile phones believed to have been used in the crime.

Ongoing investigation

Police officials said the investigation is continuing to trace the absconding suspect and gather further evidence.

“The Surajpur kidnapping case highlights how prior knowledge of a family’s financial situation was misused,” an officer noted, adding that more details could emerge as the probe progresses.

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.

A major financial irregularity has surfaced in Chhattisgarh with the exposure of the CSMCL overtime scam, involving alleged misappropriation of ₹115 crore meant for employees. The Anti-Corruption Bureau and Economic Offences Wing (ACB-EOW) have arrested two individuals linked to a manpower supply agency, marking a significant development in the ongoing probe.

The case relates to overtime payments sanctioned for staff deployed at government-run liquor outlets under the Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited (CSMCL).

Arrests and Charges

Officials confirmed the arrest of Abhishek Kumar Singh, a field officer, and Tijau Ram Nirmalkar, an accountant associated with Eagle Hunter Solution Limited. Both have been remanded to police custody until April 27 by a special court.

According to investigators, the duo allegedly handled cash withdrawals from company accounts and facilitated the transfer of funds to other accused individuals.

How Scam Operated

Preliminary findings suggest that overtime shifts were recorded only on paper. While records showed employees working additional hours, the corresponding payments never reached them.

Instead, agencies allegedly withdrew the sanctioned funds and diverted them as commissions. Investigators suspect a network involving private individuals and certain officials who shared the proceeds. The scam reportedly spans financial years from 2019–20 to 2023–24.

ED Probe Trigger

The case traces back to a prior Action by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). On November 29, 2023, officials recovered ₹28.80 lakh in cash from three suspects in Raipur.

Subsequent analysis linked the seized amount to unpaid overtime wages of liquor shop employees. Based on these findings, ACB-EOW registered a case under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act and IPC sections related to fraud and criminal conspiracy.

Financial Trail Under Scan

Investigators are currently examining bank transactions, digital records, and payment trails to establish the full extent of the alleged diversion.

Sources indicated that the money flow points towards systematic withdrawals and redistribution among multiple beneficiaries. The role of senior officials and politically connected individuals is also under scrutiny. Authorities have not ruled out further arrests as the probe expands.

Impact on Workers

The alleged scam has raised serious concerns about the exploitation of contractual workers. Employees who were shown as having worked overtime reportedly did not receive their rightful dues.

This has triggered questions over monitoring mechanisms within government-linked corporations and the accountability of outsourced manpower agencies. The case is being seen as a significant public interest story, highlighting systemic loopholes in financial oversight.

What Lies Ahead

The ACB-EOW is expected to intensify its investigation in the coming days, focusing on uncovering the broader network behind the scam. Officials are also analysing digital evidence to identify additional accused.

As the CSMCL overtime scam probe deepens, more revelations are likely, potentially leading to action against higher-level officials.

A major security concern has surfaced in Chhattisgarh’s Balod district after a judicial magistrate received a threatening letter demanding a ransom of ₹3 crore. The letter also contained direct threats to the magistrate and his family, triggering immediate police action.

Incident Overview

The case is from the Gundardehi police station area, where First Judicial Magistrate Prashant Kumar Devangan, posted at the local court, received a sealed envelope through postal delivery. The letter was handed over at his office on March 27 around 3:25 PM. Upon opening it, he discovered life-threatening warnings along with a demand for a large sum of money.

Content of the Threat Letter

The letter reportedly warned that if the ransom demand of ₹3 crore was not fulfilled, the magistrate and his family would be killed. It also contained abusive and accusatory language, claiming misuse of judicial authority. The sender accused the magistrate of accepting bribes and delivering unfair judgments that allegedly harmed common citizens.

Serious Allegations Made in the Letter

The anonymous sender alleged that the magistrate had been passing orders influenced by monetary gain and misusing his position of power. The letter also extended accusations toward court staff, claiming that case files were being mishandled or made to disappear after illegal payments. It further stated that the magistrate showed arrogance due to his position.

Claim of Naxal Connection

To intensify fear and pressure, the sender claimed affiliation with a Naxalite organization. However, authorities have not verified this claim, and it is currently part of the ongoing investigation. Police are treating the letter as a serious extortion attempt coupled with a direct threat to life.

Police Response and Investigation

After receiving the complaint from the magistrate, Gundardehi police registered a formal case on Wednesday around 5 PM. Officials have initiated an investigation to trace the origin of the letter, including postal tracking and forensic examination. Security measures around the magistrate and his family are also being reviewed.

Ongoing Inquiry

Authorities are examining whether the letter is linked to any organized group or if it is the work of an individual attempting to intimidate or extort money. The investigation aims to verify all claims made in the letter and identify the sender behind the threats.

Two Friends Kill Youth Over ₹1,800 and Mobile Password in Chhattisgarh's Sakti

Sakti Murder: Minor Dispute Over Money and Phone Lock Leads to Brutal Killing of 25-Year-Old

Brutal Strangulation and Brick Attack

In a shocking incident that highlights how small arguments can turn deadly, two men allegedly murdered their friend in cold blood over a dispute involving ₹1,800 and a mobile phone password in Chhattisgarh's Sakti district. The crime took place in broad daylight on March 28 in Bandora village under the Malkharoda police station area.

Victim's Daily Routine

Rahul Kurmi, 25, a resident of Bandora village, ran a small laundry machine centre named “Rahul Auto”. On the morning of March 28, he had gone out early around 7 am to look for daily wage labourers at a fly ash site. He returned home later that day, unaware of the tragedy that awaited him near his house.

Accused Demand Money and Password

Around 4 pm on March 28, Indrakumar Gabel, 35, and Narayan Yadav, 20, both from the same village and known to Rahul, reached his house. Indrakumar demanded the return of ₹1,800 he claimed Rahul had taken from his pocket. He also asked Rahul to reveal the face lock password he had allegedly changed on his mobile phone. Narayan accused Rahul of stealing his brother’s mobile as well. What began as a heated exchange quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.

How the Murder Unfolded

According to police, the argument turned ugly when the duo overpowered Rahul. Narayan allegedly used a piece of cloth to strangle him tightly. Even as Rahul continued to struggle and breathe, Indrakumar picked up a brick and repeatedly smashed it on his head and face, ensuring he did not survive. The entire incident occurred close to Rahul’s house in the village.

Police Recover Body, Launch Probe

Locals spotted the body lying near the house in the evening. Rahul’s uncle, Vinod Verma, 42, rushed to the spot after being informed by another villager. He immediately approached the Malkharoda police station and lodged a complaint. Police reached the spot, took the body into custody, and sent it for post-mortem. Marks of strangulation on the neck and severe injuries on the head and face confirmed the brutal nature of the attack.

Quick Arrests Within Hours

Acting swiftly on suspicion, the police team questioned villagers and zeroed in on Indrakumar Gabel and Narayan Yadav. Both were detained from their homes. During interrogation, they reportedly confessed to the crime, admitting the dispute arose over the money and mobile password. Police recovered sufficient evidence linking them to the murder. On March 29, both accused were formally arrested and produced before the court, which remanded them to judicial custody.

Background of the Accused and Victim

All three individuals belonged to the same village and shared a circle of friends. Rahul was known locally for his small business, while the accused were also residents of Bandora. Sources indicated that the ₹1,800 transaction and the mobile lock issue had created simmering tension that boiled over on that fateful afternoon.

Impact on Village and Community

The gruesome murder has sent shockwaves through the quiet village of Bandora and surrounding areas in Sakti district. Residents expressed concern over rising incidents of violence triggered by petty disputes. Many pointed out how easy access to no major weapons still led to such a brutal outcome using everyday items like cloth and brick. The incident has also raised questions about quick escalation of arguments among young men in rural pockets of Chhattisgarh.

Police Praise for Swift Action

Malkharoda police officials said the case was cracked within six hours of the body being discovered, demonstrating effective local intelligence and prompt response. Senior officers have assured a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the victim’s family. No other angles are being probed at present, as the accused have admitted their role.

What Lies Ahead

The family of Rahul Kurmi has demanded strict punishment for the killers. The case will now proceed in the local court with charges likely to include murder under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. Police have appealed to villagers to resolve minor disputes amicably and avoid taking the law into their hands. This incident serves as a grim reminder of how trivial issues can destroy lives in moments of uncontrolled anger.

As investigations continue, authorities are monitoring the situation to maintain peace in the area. The entire episode has once again brought focus on the need for better awareness and community intervention in handling personal conflicts before they turn fatal.

Brutal killing uncovered

A gruesome murder case in Surajpur has come to light nearly 26 days after the incident, with police arresting the victim’s husband for allegedly killing his wife and attempting to mislead investigators. The accused had initially lodged a false report claiming that his wife died under unknown circumstances.

False story exposed

According to police officials, the accused tried to cover up the crime by fabricating a story soon after the incident in early March. However, inconsistencies in his statement and postmortem findings raised suspicion, prompting a deeper probe.

During sustained questioning, the husband eventually confessed to the हत्या, revealing chilling details of the assault.

Frequent marital disputes

Investigators said the couple had a history of frequent arguments, largely driven by the wife’s suspicion over her husband’s character. Sources indicated that the accused was in contact with other women, which often led to heated confrontations at home.

On the night of the incident, a similar argument escalated beyond control, leading to the fatal assault.

Assault turned fatal

Police said the accused first physically assaulted his wife using a plastic pipe, targeting her limbs. The violence intensified when he allegedly attacked her with a knife, inflicting fatal injuries.

The victim was found lying face down beneath a cot when the accused returned home later that night. Initially, he chose not to act, assuming she was intoxicated. The next morning, he claimed to have discovered her dead.

Investigation gathers pace

Following the death, the accused informed neighbours and relatives that his wife had died due to unknown reasons. A preliminary case was registered, and the body was sent for postmortem.

Officials said the autopsy report revealed multiple injuries inconsistent with natural or accidental death, prompting police to treat the case as suspicious.

Confession and arrest

After gathering evidence and questioning the accused in custody, police confirmed his involvement. He admitted to attacking his wife in a fit of rage following an argument.

Based on his statement, police recovered the plastic pipe and knife allegedly used in the crime. The accused has since been arrested and sent to judicial remand.

Criminal background noted

Police sources also indicated that the accused has a prior record and is known in the local area for involvement in minor criminal activities. This background is now being factored into the ongoing investigation.

Officials added that further legal proceedings are underway, and additional charges may be invoked based on evidence.

Broader concerns raised

The Surajpur murder case has once again highlighted concerns around domestic violence and underreported marital disputes in rural areas. Experts point out that many such incidents escalate due to lack of timely intervention and awareness.

Authorities have urged citizens to report domestic conflicts early to prevent such tragedies

 What lies ahead

Police said a detailed chargesheet will be filed in court after completing the investigation. The case is expected to proceed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including murder and destruction of evidence.

As the Surajpur murder case moves forward, it underscores the need for stronger social and legal mechanisms to address domestic violence and protect vulnerable individuals.