Jashpur Bribe: Hospital Dresser Suspended After ₹5,000 Demand Caught On Camera

Viral Graft Incident

A government hospital dresser in Chhattisgarh’s Jashpur district has been placed under suspension after a video showing him accepting a bribe of ₹5,000 went viral on social media. The accused official, Kishor Kumar Chauhan, was posted at the district hospital. The footage, which emerged on April 9, shows him counting the cash and allegedly demanding an additional ₹2,000.

What The Video Shows

In the widely shared clip, Chauhan is seen accepting money from a man seeking medical reimbursement. The conversation also touches upon a treatment expense of ₹45,000, reportedly related to an IVF procedure. The dresser is heard telling the complainant, “We could have sent your bill to Raipur, but it would not have been passed there because IVF costs are not covered.”

Immediate Action Taken

Following the circulation of the video, senior health officials took cognisance of the matter. The Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) of Jashpur ordered a prompt inquiry. The dresser was suspended under Rule 9 of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1966. The administration has termed the act a clear violation of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1965.

Official Statement On Matter

Dr. G.S. Jatra, the Chief Medical and Health Officer, confirmed the development. “Prima facie, the viral video shows a serious offence. This kind of illegal gratification by a government servant not only violates service rules but also tarnishes the image of the department,” he said. The CMHO added that a detailed departmental inquiry has been ordered, promising strict disciplinary action if the charges are proven.

Background Of The Case

Sources indicated that the complainant had applied for a cashless treatment or reimbursement after incurring medical expenses. However, instead of processing the claim, the dresser allegedly demanded a bribe to get the file cleared. No formal complaint has been filed by the individual seen in the video, which is now being treated as key evidence in the internal probe.

Impact And Analysis

The incident has sparked outrage in the region, with locals questioning the transparency of government health services. Latest news today from Jashpur highlights a growing concern over petty corruption in public hospitals. This public interest story has put the spotlight back on the need for strict vigilance in state-run healthcare facilities. Government updates indicate a zero-tolerance approach towards such conduct.

What Happens Next

Chauhan has been attached to the Community Health Centre in Patthalgaon as his headquarters for the duration of the suspension. He will be eligible for a subsistence allowance as per rules. The CMHO’s office stated that a final report on the national and international news front for corruption cases is expected within weeks. Meanwhile, health department officials confirmed that more staff members could face scrutiny if their roles are uncovered during the investigation. This trending news India story serves as a fresh reminder of ongoing efforts to clean up public service delivery at the grassroots level.

African Swine Fever Outbreak in Bhilai; Over 450 Pigs Culled

Authorities seal major commercial farm in Durg district following confirmation of the highly contagious ASF virus as local industry faces massive losses.

 The Chhattisgarh animal husbandry department has initiated a massive containment operation in the Durg district following a confirmed outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF). Over the last week, the viral infection has claimed the lives of nearly 300 pigs at a prominent breeding farm in the Nardha-Mudpar village, prompting officials to cull an additional 150 animals to prevent further transmission.

Massive Culling Operation Launched

State veterinary officials moved into the Mudpar facility on Monday morning immediately after lab results from Bhopal confirmed the presence of the ASF virus. Teams wearing protective PPE kits administered lethal injections to the surviving livestock. This drastic measure was necessary as the virus carries a near 100% mortality rate among swine, with no known vaccine currently available globally.

Strict Disposal Protocols Followed

According to officials, the carcasses were disposed of using deep-burial methods in large pits excavated by earthmovers behind the farm premises. The entire area has been sanitized with lime and disinfectants. Local authorities are now moving to officially seal the farm to restrict movement, as the virus is known to survive on surfaces, clothing, and even currency notes for several days.

Significant Economic Blow Reported

Farm owner P.O. Joy reported a staggering financial loss estimated at approximately ₹1.20 crore. The farm, which served as a major supply hub for pork in Bhilai, Durg, and neighboring states, housed high-value breeding stock. Among the animals lost were 133 pregnant sows and nearly 400 piglets, many of which succumbed to the agonizing symptoms of the fever before the official culling began.

Delayed Response Concerns Raised

The farm management noted that while samples were collected as early as March 29, the formal confirmation arrived only on April 6. "By the time the reports came, 300 pigs had already died in pain," the owner stated, emphasizing that a 24-hour response window is critical in such outbreaks to safeguard nearby livestock holdings. There are growing concerns that the infection may have entered the state via transport trucks from Maharashtra.

Human Safety And Consumption

While the African Swine Fever outbreak is a catastrophic blow to the agricultural economy, health experts stressed that the virus does not infect humans. However, the district administration has issued an advisory against the consumption of pork from affected regions. This latest news today serves as a reminder of the fragility of the livestock sector, as officials monitor reports of similar deaths in forest areas of Mahasamund.

State On High Alert

The Animal Husbandry Department has intensified surveillance across Chhattisgarh. Deputy Director Wasim Shams confirmed that the department is tracking the movement of livestock and has alerted neighboring districts. This development follows a recent Bird Flu scare in Bilaspur, highlighting a challenging period for the state’s poultry and livestock industries.

Future Outlook For Farmers

The government is expected to review compensation protocols for affected farmers under the National Animal Disease Control Programme. For now, pig farmers in the Durg-Bhilai belt have been advised to maintain strict bio-security measures and report any sudden deaths to the nearest veterinary center. This public interest story continues to develop as authorities trace the source of the infection.

HDFC Bank staffer arrested in Bilaspur for cheating lawyer of ₹3 crore

Accused posed as Scottish investor to lure victim into ₹500 crore fake healthcare project; luxury cars and gadgets seized.

The Bilaspur Police have neutralized a major investment-linked cyber fraud with the arrest of a 34-year-old bank employee for allegedly duping a local lawyer of ₹3.13 crore. The accused, identified as Naveen June, an employee of HDFC Bank, reportedly orchestrated an elaborate scam involving fictitious foreign investors from Scotland and a massive ₹500 crore investment plan for social infrastructure in Chhattisgarh.

The breaking investment trap

The victim, identified as advocate Arun Mishra, was approached in early 2024 through a WhatsApp message from a foreign number. The sender, posing as a UK-based individual named ‘Dr. Lovheet’, introduced the victim to a supposed collaborator, ‘Grace David’ from Scotland. The duo enticed the lawyer with a proposal to invest ₹500 crore into building a cancer hospital, a blind institute, and a law college in India, offering him a partnership in the prestigious project.

Anatomy of the fraud

Relying on the professional background of his friend, Naveen June, the victim proceeded with project reports and legal formalities. However, the scam transitioned into a financial drain when the accused claimed that a Demand Draft (DD) worth ₹103 crore had been issued but was stuck in clearance. Under the guise of processing fees, customs duties, RBI clearances, and tax obligations, the victim was pressured into transferring large sums of money across multiple accounts.

Exploiting professional banking trust

Investigation reveals that Naveen June, a resident of Sonepat, Haryana, currently living in Bilaspur, utilized his insider knowledge of banking systems to facilitate the crime. Having previously served as a Direct Selling Agent, June created several fake email IDs, masquerading as high-ranking officials from the Embassy, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and various nationalized banks to provide a veneer of authenticity to the clearance delays.

Police action and recovery

Suspicion arose when the promised ₹103 crore draft failed to materialize despite the victim paying over ₹3 crore by July 31, 2024. Following a formal complaint at the Chakarbhata Police Station, a special team tracked the financial trail to June. Authorities have since seized a Mahindra Thar, a Maruti Venue, premium mobile phones, tablets, and laptops used in the commission of the crime.

Wider syndicate suspected locally

While Naveen June is currently in custody, senior officials indicated that this was not a solo operation. "The accused used sophisticated social engineering tactics and fake digital signatures. We are investigating the involvement of other associates who may have provided the foreign virtual numbers and helped in laundering the cheated amount," a police spokesperson stated during an India News Update.

Rising cyber-investment scams

This incident follows a string of high-profile frauds in Chhattisgarh. Recently, Raipur police busted a gang where a Class 10 dropout posed as a Delhi Post Office Director to dupe 52 people of ₹2.34 crore. The Bilaspur case highlights a dangerous trend where professionals with banking backgrounds are leveraging their expertise to target high-net-worth individuals under the guise of Government Updates or international collaborations.

What lies ahead

Naveen June has been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for cheating and forgery. The police are now coordinating with the cyber cell to trace the remaining funds and identify the 'money mules' whose accounts were used for the initial smaller transfers. This Public Interest Story serves as a grim reminder for citizens to verify foreign investment credentials through official diplomatic channels before committing personal capital to this Trending News India.

Chhattisgarh Rain Alert: IMD Warns of Thunderstorms, High Winds for Five Days

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a five-day alert for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across Chhattisgarh. Officials said wind speeds could reach 40 to 50 km per hour, with scattered light to moderate rain expected in several districts from Friday onwards.

Five-Day Weather Alert

The weather office has forecast thunderstorm activity over most parts of central and northern Chhattisgarh for the next 120 hours. Southern districts may see isolated showers during the first three days. The alert remains in effect until Wednesday next week, according to a bulletin issued from the IMD’s Raipur centre.

High Winds Expected

Wind speeds are likely to touch 50 km per hour during peak thunderstorm activity. Officials have cautioned residents against venturing out during squalls. Loose structures, hoardings, and thatched roofs could face damage. Power lines may also be affected in rural pockets.

Temperature to Drop

Day temperatures are expected to drop by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius after an initial rise over the next 48 hours. “Central and north Chhattisgarh will see a marginal increase in maximum temperatures first, followed by a gradual fall,” an IMD scientist explained. Southern parts, however, will witness no major change in mercury levels for the next three days.

Past 24 Hours Data

In the last 24 hours, Pendraroad recorded 10 mm of very light rainfall. Rajnandgaon remained the hottest location in the state with a maximum temperature of 39.5 degrees Celsius. Durg logged the lowest minimum at 20.4 degrees. No major weather-related damage has been reported so far.

Raipur’s Cloudy Outlook

The state capital is likely to remain partly cloudy through the weekend. The maximum temperature in Raipur will hover around 39 degrees Celsius, while the minimum could settle near 25 degrees. Short spells of rain or thundershowers are possible in the evening hours, said local meteorological sources.

Advice for Residents

The state disaster management authority has advised farmers to postpone harvesting and pesticide application until conditions improve. People have been urged to stay indoors during lightning and avoid shelter under trees. District control rooms have been placed on standby.

What Lies Ahead

The weather system is being driven by an upper air cyclonic circulation over central India. Officials said the intensity of rain may reduce after five days, but isolated thundershowers could continue in northern districts. A fresh western disturbance may influence the region later next week, though no immediate alert has been issued.

Ambikapur Horror: Woman’s Head Crushed, Plastic Bottle Found in Private Parts

Rape And Murder Suspected

A woman’s body with a crushed skull and a plastic bottle inserted in her private parts was found near the Mahamaya entrance on Ring Road here early Friday morning. Police have registered a murder case and suspect sexual assault before the killing, as per officials.

Body Found at Meat Shop

The blood-soaked body of a middle-aged woman was discovered inside a roadside meat shop around dawn. Senior Superintendent of Police Rajesh Agrawal and Additional SP Amolak Singh reached the spot along with forensic and dog squad teams. Officials said the throat was slit with a sharp weapon, and the face was deliberately smashed to hide identity.

Plastic Bottle Recovered

During the initial examination, investigators found a plastic bottle lodged in the woman’s private parts. “Prima facie, this appears to be a murder case. But the presence of the bottle points to a possible sexual assault,” a police source told this English news portal India. The forensic team collected blood samples and other evidence from the crime scene.

CCTV Footage Being Analysed

Police are now scanning multiple CCTV cameras installed in the vicinity. Local councillor Satish Bari said footage from one camera showed the woman walking with a man late Thursday night. “Another camera near the crime spot is also being examined. The accused will be arrested soon,” Bari added.

No Identification Yet

Authorities have not yet identified the victim. No missing person complaint matching her description has been filed in Ambikapur or surrounding areas. The body has been sent to the district hospital for post-mortem. Police have also questioned local residents and shopkeepers for any leads.

Public Outrage Grows

The brutal nature of the crime has sparked anger among residents of the Ring Road locality. Women’s rights groups have demanded fast-track court proceedings once the accused is caught. “Such savagery cannot be tolerated. We want immediate arrest and strict punishment,” said a local activist.

What Next for Investigation

Additional SP Amolak Singh said teams have been formed to nab the suspect within days. “We are working on multiple angles, including whether the victim was a sex worker or a homeless woman. The CCTV analysis is key,” he stated. Police have also alerted checkpoints across Sarguja district to track any suspicious movement.

According to officials, a dog squad traced a trail from the crime scene for nearly 200 metres before losing the scent on the main road. The police have appealed to citizens to report any information about missing women or unusual activity in the area. A reward for information leading to the arrest is being considered.

Raipur Double Murder: Dismissed Cop Arrested for Killing Wife, Stepdaughter

A dismissed police personnel was apprehended by the Raipur police on Friday for allegedly murdering his wife and stepdaughter following a heated domestic dispute fueled by suspicion.

The capital city of Chhattisgarh woke up to a grim development as officials confirmed the arrest of Gulab Sahu, a former policeman, in connection with the April 1 double murder in Semariya village. Investigations revealed that the accused used a battle-axe (tangiya) and a heavy metal pot to bludgeon the victims after a row over personal character suspicions escalated into extreme violence.

Violent confrontation in Semariya

The incident, which took place within the jurisdiction of the Assembly Police Station, has sent shockwaves through the local community. According to the police, the accused, Gulab Sahu, targeted his wife, Hemlata Sahu (35), and her daughter from a previous marriage, Chitra Sahu (22).

The forensic evidence collected from the crime scene suggests a struggle occurred before the fatal blows were delivered. Sources indicated that the bodies were discovered in a pool of blood with deep injuries to the head and facial regions, confirming the brutal nature of the assault.

Suspicion led to tragedy

The Raipur double murder appears to be the culmination of prolonged domestic discord. Gulab Sahu reportedly harbored deep-seated suspicions regarding his wife's character, leading to frequent altercations.

On the day of the incident, a verbal spat began between the accused and his stepdaughter. When Hemlata intervened to protect her daughter, Sahu allegedly lost his temper, picking up a nearby bronze pot and a sharp axe to carry out the killings.

Police launch swift probe

The matter came to light after Navneet Kumar Sahu, the victim’s brother, filed a formal complaint. He informed the authorities that Hemlata had been living with the accused for the past two years in Semariya.

Upon receiving the Latest News Today regarding the killings, senior police officials and forensic experts rushed to the spot. The police recovered the blood-stained murder weapons—the axe and the pot—based on the disclosures made by the accused during interrogation.

Arrest of the accused

The Raipur police utilized technical surveillance and a network of informants to track down Sahu, who had fled the scene shortly after the crime. He was eventually cornered and taken into custody from a hideout.

Official records state that Gulab Sahu is a native of Sonsari village in the Janjgir-Champa district. He had been residing in Semariya following his dismissal from the police force, though the specific reasons for his prior dismissal remain under administrative review.

Second marriage under strain

Background checks revealed that Hemlata and Gulab had entered into a second marriage approximately four years ago. Chitra, the younger victim, was Hemlata’s daughter from her first husband.

Neighbors reported that while the family appeared stable initially, the relationship had soured significantly over the last few months. The frequent arguments over petty issues often required intervention from local residents, though no formal police complaint had been lodged prior to the murders.

Legal proceedings underway

Following his arrest, Sahu was produced before a local court in Raipur. The police sought his remand to further investigate the timeline of events and to ensure all physical evidence was corroborated with his statement.

The court has sent the accused to judicial custody. This Public Interest Story highlights the growing concerns over domestic violence and the lethal consequences of unresolved familial disputes in urban peripheries.

Future outlook on safety

The local administration has assured the public of a fast-track investigation to ensure justice for the deceased. This India News Update serves as a reminder of the need for better community intervention in domestic conflicts.

As the legal process moves forward, the Raipur police are expected to file a comprehensive chargesheet within the stipulated timeframe. The incident remains one of the most discussed cases in Trending News India this week.

Two Korba power plant workers found dead in forest area

The bodies of two friends, employed as contract workers at the Balco power plant, were recovered from a single noose in the Belakachhar forest on Thursday.

 In a chilling discovery that has sent shockwaves through the Belakachhar village in Chhattisgarh’s Korba district, the bodies of two young men were found hanging from a tree on Thursday morning. The deceased, identified as Pramod Kanwar (27) and Amit Mathur (28), were residents of the same village and worked as contract labourers at the Balco power plant.

According to officials, the duo had left their respective homes on Wednesday afternoon, informing family members that they were heading out for a stroll. When they failed to return by late evening, anxious relatives attempted to contact them via mobile phones, which remained unreachable. A search was launched by the families throughout the night, but no clues were found until villagers heading into the forest spotted the bodies at daybreak.

Initial discovery by villagers

The grim scene was discovered by locals who were on their way to the forest for morning chores. They immediately alerted the Balco police station. Upon arrival, the police noted that both men were hanging from the same piece of cloth tied to a tree branch.

Identity of the deceased

The victims were confirmed to be married men and local inhabitants. Preliminary inquiries suggest that neither Pramod nor Amit had reported for work at the power plant for the last few days. The sudden absence from their professional duties is now a key point of the police investigation.

Police launch detailed probe

A forensic team was called to the site to collect evidence. While the primary appearance suggests a suicide pact, the Balco police have not ruled out foul play. “We are looking at both suicide and murder angles,” a senior police official stated. The bodies have been sent for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause and time of death.

Family members in shock

The families of the two men remain inconsolable. According to Amit's kin, Pramod had reached Amit’s house around 1:00 PM on Wednesday, after which they left together. There were no immediate signs of distress or conflict reported by the families prior to the incident.

Similar past incidents noted

This incident has drawn parallels to a case reported in Raigarh district on March 10, where two friends were found hanging from a single sari following a birthday celebration. In that case, as well, the motive remained shrouded in mystery, raising concerns over such patterns in the region.

Next steps in investigation

The Balco police have registered a case under accidental death reports (Marg) for now. Statements from colleagues at the Balco power plant and mobile call records are being scrutinized to piece together the final hours of the victims. Authorities are awaiting the autopsy report to steer the direction of the ongoing India News Update.

A man who married two women in Chhattisgarh’s Kondagaon district has triggered outrage among tribal leaders after wedding both in the same mandap on March 24. Hitesh Yadav, a farmer from Bailgaon village in Farsgaon block, took seven rounds with Fulbati and Yamini during a single ceremony, complete with traditional rituals and a wedding card. Videos of the event have gone viral on social media, drawing sharp reactions from the Sarv Adivasi Samaj.

Same Mandap Wedding  

The marriage rituals unfolded over two days. On March 23, haldi ceremonies were held. The next day, Yadav, believed to be in his late twenties, exchanged vows with Fulbati from Shankarpur and Yamini from Baniyagaon. Video clips show the groom holding both brides’ hands as they circled the sacred fire. Friends and villagers danced at the celebrations. The wedding card was printed and distributed openly.

Man Explains His Decision  

According to Hitesh Yadav, the sequence began when Fulbati first rejected his proposal. He then proposed to Yamini, who accepted immediately. Later, Fulbati changed her mind and agreed to the marriage. “Both women consented willingly,” the groom claimed. He said all three families and village elders blessed the union to avoid future disputes.

Tribal Body Protests  

The Sarv Adivasi Samaj, Farsgaon block, held a press conference on Monday. Its president, Ishwar Korram, stated that the tribal society does not support such weddings. “This is against our traditions and social norms,” he said. The leaders alleged that Yadav lured the two women into marriage through deceit. They warned of a possible agitation if the administration fails to act.

Demand For Action  

Tribal representatives demanded a high-level inquiry into the matter. They urged the district administration to register a case against the man and take strict punitive action. “The administration did not take timely steps. We will protest if needed,” Korram added. The society views this incident as morally wrong and a threat to the established social order.

Legal Perspective  

Advocate Nipendra Mishra explained that under the Hindu Marriage Act, a person cannot legally marry two living spouses unless the first marriage is dissolved by a valid divorce. However, he noted that tribal communities in Chhattisgarh often follow customary practices that permit multiple marriages. This legal grey area complicates any potential police action.

Social Impact Analysis  

The incident has divided local opinion. While some villagers attended the wedding as guests, tribal leaders insist it sets a bad precedent. The viral videos have sparked debates on polygamy in tribal belts of central India. Public interest in the story remains high, with many demanding clarity on whether such unions can be legally recognised.

What Happens Next  

District officials have not issued any statement yet. Sources indicated that the administration is aware of the complaint and may initiate a probe based on the tribal body’s memorandum. Meanwhile, Hitesh Yadav and his two brides continue to live together. As the debate over the man who married two women in Chhattisgarh intensifies, all eyes are on the Kondagaon district administration for its next move.

Bhilai chemical leak: Pipeline burst triggers massive smog

A pipeline burst at KSS Hydrocarbons in Hathkhoj caused pitch oil to leak, leading to respiratory issues for locals and industrial workers.

  A major industrial mishap was reported in the Hathkhoj Industrial Area of Bhilai on Tuesday evening after a pipeline burst at KSS Hydrocarbons, located within the Engineering Park. The incident, which occurred during the loading of pitch oil, resulted in a massive cloud of chemical smoke engulfing the vicinity for over four hours.

The spill of the hot chemical, upon coming into contact with the air, instantly vaporized into dense white fumes. While no immediate fatalities were reported, the Bhilai chemical leak caused significant panic as workers in neighboring units and residents in nearby areas complained of severe coughing, nausea, and breathing difficulties.

Chemical spill triggers panic

The accident took place between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM when a transfer line snapped during the loading process. According to sources indicated on the ground, the hot pitch oil spread across the factory floor rapidly.

While the factory staff attempted to contain the liquid by creating sand barriers, they failed to control the toxic fumes. The smog quickly drifted into adjacent industrial units, forcing several factories to shut down their operations prematurely.

Safety protocols allegedly ignored

Witnesses and neighboring factory owners alleged a total lapse in safety protocols by the management of KSS Hydrocarbons. Despite the scale of the leak, the factory’s emergency siren remained silent.

"If they had sounded the alarm, we could have evacuated our staff earlier," said Santosh Kumar, a neighboring factory owner. He added that his night shift workers had to flee the premises after suffering from respiratory distress.

Delayed response by authorities

In a surprising turn of events, the company management reportedly failed to inform the fire department or local administration about the crisis. The Fire Brigade was eventually alerted by local residents and nearby business owners.

A rescue team reached the site only around 8:30 PM, nearly four hours after the initial burst. By this time, the thick smog had already spread across a significant portion of the Hathkhoj Industrial Area, affecting visibility on local roads.

Official statement on incident

District Fire Officer Nagendra Singh, who inspected the site, confirmed that the substance involved was pitch oil, typically used in ink manufacturing. The management claimed they did not call the fire department because there was no "active fire."

"The operators argued they were using their own safety measures and could not use water on the chemical," Singh stated. He further noted that a detailed investigation is underway to check for violations of the Factories Act.

Impact on local health

The health impact of the Bhilai chemical leak was felt beyond the factory walls. Workers reported a burning sensation in their eyes and throat, while some children in the peripheral residential zones reportedly suffered from vomiting.

Medical experts have warned that inhaling fumes from heated hydrocarbons can lead to acute bronchitis and long-term respiratory issues if exposure is prolonged. Local unions have demanded a safety audit of all chemical units in the Engineering Park.

Violations under industrial law

As per industrial safety norms, any chemical leak must be followed by an immediate shutdown of power lines and the sounding of a high-decibel siren. Preliminary reports suggest these mandatory steps were bypassed.

The local administration is currently recording statements from the affected parties. Officials have indicated that KSS Hydrocarbons could face heavy penalties if found guilty of negligence or suppressing information regarding an industrial hazard.

Future outlook and action

The Durg district administration is expected to issue a show-cause notice to the unit. This incident has once again highlighted the fragile safety ecosystem within the state's industrial hubs.

As part of the latest India News Update, residents have called for stricter monitoring of chemical handling in the Hathkhoj region. For now, the situation remains under watch as authorities ensure the spill is neutralized and the air quality in the industrial park returns to safe levels.

Elderly Couple Brutally Murdered in Janjgir-Champa; Robbery Suspected

Masks and fake hair recovered from the crime scene as police launch a manhunt for suspects who fled with gold jewelry in Chhattisgarh.

In a chilling double homicide that has sent shockwaves through Chhattisgarh’s Janjgir-Champa district, an elderly couple was found brutally murdered at their residence in Khapri village. Santram Sahu (62) and his wife Shyam Bai Sahu (62) were killed late Tuesday night, with attackers reportedly using sharp-edged weapons to slit their throats.

According to officials, the perpetrators escaped with gold jewelry and cash estimated at ₹80,000. The discovery of a Holi mask and synthetic hair at the scene suggests a pre-planned execution where the assailants attempted to conceal their identities.

Gruesome discovery at dawn

The incident came to light early Wednesday morning when the couple's eldest son, Harishankar Sahu, visited the house to collect agricultural supplies. Finding the front door ajar, he entered to discover his father’s body lying on the floor and his mother dead on a cot, both soaked in blood.

Targeted attack on seniors

Local reports indicate that Santram, a farmer who also operated a small betel shop, lived alone with his wife while their sons resided separately with their families. The timing of the attack is particularly tragic, as the family had celebrated their grandson’s wedding just days ago on March 28.

Evidence of forced entry

Preliminary investigations by the Mulmula police suggest the attackers used a tree adjacent to the boundary wall to scale the building and gain entry. Forensic experts noted that the house was ransacked, and a gold necklace was missing from Shyam Bai’s person, pointing toward a robbery motive.

Strategic use of disguises

The recovery of a mask and fake hair from the premises has added a complex layer to the investigation. Sources indicated that these items were likely used to mislead witnesses or cameras. Bloody footprints were also traced from the bedroom leading out toward the main road, indicating the escape route used by the suspects.

Massive manhunt launched now

Superintendent of Police Vijay Kumar Pandey arrived at the village to oversee the probe. "We have deployed FSL teams and a dog squad to track the movement of the accused. The nature of the entry suggests the involvement of more than one individual who was familiar with the house layout," a senior official stated.

Rising concerns over safety

The double murder has sparked fear among the residents of Khapri, as the village has seen little violent crime in recent years. Relatives and neighbors are currently being questioned to determine if any suspicious individuals were spotted loitering in the area following the recent wedding festivities.

Future course of investigation

The bodies have been sent for post-mortem at the district hospital. While the primary angle remains robbery, Mulmula police are not ruling out personal enmity. A case has been registered against unidentified persons, and authorities claim that an arrest is imminent as digital and physical evidence is processed.

India Nearly Naxal-Free, Says Amit Shah In Parliament

Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared in Lok Sabha on Monday that India has achieved its March 31, 2026 deadline to become almost Naxal-free, while accusing the previous Congress government in Chhattisgarh of shielding Maoists. The statement drew sharp responses from former chief minister Bhupesh Baghel, who termed the allegations a “blatant lie.”

Deadline Achieved

Shah informed the House that the government’s three-year target to eliminate left-wing extremism now stands fulfilled. “With full confidence, we can say that Naxalism has been eradicated from the country,” he said during a nearly 90-minute address. Official data presented by the Home Minister showed that 706 Naxals have been killed in the last three years, while over 4,800 cadres have surrendered under rehabilitation programmes.

Shah’s Accusations

The Home Minister specifically targeted the previous Congress administration in Chhattisgarh for delaying anti-Naxal operations. He alleged that between 2019 and 2023, the state government deliberately protected Maoists, preventing security forces from acting on intelligence inputs. “The Congress government in Chhattisgarh kept Naxals safe,” Shah asserted, claiming that operations gained momentum only after the Bharatiya Janata Party came to power in the state in December 2023.

Ask Bhupesh Baghel’

In a dramatic exchange, Shah dared the opposition to demand proof. “Ask Bhupesh Baghel – should I present the evidence here? Say yes, or you will be trapped,” he said, referring to three specific dates – August 20, 2019, August 24, 2024, and March 31, 2026 – when key security meetings were held. He added that delays occurred because Chhattisgarh then had a Congress government.

Congress Government Blamed

Shah also criticised the Congress for what he called 60 years of neglect. “Seventy years – 60 were under Congress rule. Why didn’t you develop these areas?” he asked. He recalled former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s admission that Maoists were India’s biggest internal security threat. Shah further rejected comparisons between Naxals and freedom fighters Bhagat Singh or Birsa Munda, calling it “folly” to equate Constitution-violating armed insurgents with those who fought the British.

Baghel’s Sharp Rebuttal

Responding swiftly on social media, former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel dismissed Shah’s claims as “absolutely false.” He challenged the Centre to make public any evidence of his government shielding Maoists. “If there were objections or proof, why was it not revealed earlier?” Baghel asked. He maintained that his administration had continuously conducted operations, setting up security camps deep in Bastar’s remote areas – camps he said made today’s successes possible.

Political Row Intensifies

Baghel accused the Home Minister of politicising a sensitive national security issue. “My party has lost senior leaders to Naxal violence. This should not be about political mudslinging,” he said, urging a focus on facts rather than allegations. The Congress has demanded that Shah produce documented proof of his claims in Parliament.

What Next

Officials indicate that security forces will now focus on the two remaining Naxal-affected districts to achieve complete eradication. The government plans to intensify development work in Bastar, including schools, health centres and ration shops in every village. As per latest updates, rehabilitation of surrendered Maoists will continue, while operations against holdout cadres will persist. The political debate over the Congress’s role is likely to continue, with Baghel insisting that his government’s contribution to anti-Naxal efforts cannot be erased.

BJP Leader Gauri Gupta Clashes With Police Over Entry In Bilaspur

Viral video shows BJP leader arguing with security personnel over protocol during Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s visit to the Circuit House.

BILASPUR: High drama unfolded at the Circuit House in Bilaspur late Sunday night after Gauri Gupta, a senior BJP leader, engaged in a heated exchange with security personnel. The confrontation reportedly began when police officers stationed at the gates denied her entry, citing security protocols during the stay of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. The incident, captured on camera, has since gone viral across social media platforms, sparking a debate on administrative procedures and political conduct.

Tense standoff at Circuit House

The incident occurred shortly after Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai arrived at the Circuit House following a public event at River View. Given the Chief Minister’s presence, the local administration had enforced a multi-tier security ring around the premises. According to eyewitnesses, Gupta attempted to drive into the campus but was intercepted by the on-duty police team. The refusal sparked an immediate reaction from the leader, leading to a loud verbal spat that lasted several minutes in the high-security zone.

Heated exchange over protocol

In the viral footage, Gupta is heard reprimanding the police officers for blocking her path. Visibly agitated, she questioned the officers' understanding of "protocol" and demanded they connect her with the Superintendent of Police (SP). "Do you not know the protocol? Even the SP does not stop me," she was heard saying in the video. She further emphasized her political standing as a State Vice President of the BJP Yuva Morcha, asserting that the Chief Minister belonged to her own party.

Security measures during visit

The security apparatus was particularly tight on Sunday as the Chief Minister was in Bilaspur to unveil a statue of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Police officials on the ground maintained that they were following standard operating procedures (SOPs) which restrict unauthorized movement when the VVIP is indoors. The officers reportedly informed the leader that they had strict instructions to verify every individual entering the gates, regardless of their political affiliation or designation.

Intervention by party colleagues

The stalemate at the gate continued until another senior BJP leader arrived at the spot. Seeing the escalating tension, the leader intervened and spoke with the security detail. After a brief discussion and verification, the police eventually allowed Gupta to enter the Circuit House premises. While the entry was granted, the atmosphere remained charged, and the video of the initial argument began circulating on local news groups and X (formerly Twitter) within hours of the event.

Public reaction and viral footage

The video has triggered a wave of reactions online, with many questioning the behavior of political representatives toward uniformed personnel. While some supporters of the leader claimed it was a matter of administrative overreach, others praised the police for sticking to their duty. This incident follows a string of similar reports in the state where individuals claiming political influence have been caught on camera in disagreements with law enforcement agencies over traffic or security rules.

Official silence on incident

Despite the video gaining significant traction, neither the Bilaspur Police nor the district administration has released an official statement regarding the altercation. Sources indicated that no formal complaint has been lodged by the personnel on duty. Similarly, the state BJP unit has not officially commented on the video or the conduct of its office-bearer during the Chief Minister’s official tour. The police continue to maintain that security protocols remain non-negotiable during VVIP movements.

Future outlook on discipline

The incident highlights the recurring friction between political cadres and administrative security during high-profile visits. As digital transparency increases, such interactions are being closely monitored by the public and the media alike.