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CBI arrests proclaimed offender in 2005 Kerala engineering student murder case

Thiruvananthapuram, March 28, 2026
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a proclaimed offender (PO) who had been absconding in a case involving the abduction for ransom and brutal murder of Shyamal Mandal, a student of the College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram, in 2005, an official said on Saturday.

Durga Bahadur Bhat Chetri alias Deepak was tracked down and arrested on Friday, the CBI said in a statement.

It was revealed that after committing the crime, the accused — Durga Bahadur Bhat Chetri alias Deepak (PO) — had been impersonating Suraj B. Bhatt, son of Balbahadur Rambahadur Bhatt. He allegedly concealed his identity, got married, and settled in Nagpur, the agency said.

The probe agency said the investigation revealed that the murder was committed by Durga Bahadur Bhat Chetri along with co-accused Mohammed Ali, both hailing from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Durga Bahadur Bhat Chetri had been absconding since the investigation stage in 2005.

After a thorough investigation, the CBI filed a chargesheet against both the accused. However, Durga Bahadur Bhat Chetri, a proclaimed offender, remained absconding, following which the trial court declared him a Proclaimed Offender.

The trial against co-accused Mohammed Ali has been completed, and he was convicted for the crime in 2022.

The CBI had re-registered the case on December 31, 2008, and took up the investigation in compliance with an order of the High Court of Kerala dated December 10, 2008.

The High Court transferred the investigation of the case from the state police to the CBI. The case relates to the disappearance of Shyamal Mandal, whose father had received a ransom call before his body was recovered on October 23, 2005.

Despite filing the chargesheet, Durga Bahadur Bhat Chetri continued to evade arrest and remained absconding for years.

The CBI said that upon producing the accused before the jurisdictional court in Ernakulam, it will seek his custody for further interrogation.(Agency)

Punjab Flags Urgent Fuel Demand as 140 LMT Wheat Harvest Approaches; Seeks Centre’s Immediate Action: Bhagwant Mann

Chandigarh, March 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday called upon the Government of India to urgently ensure enhanced and uninterrupted supply of petrol, diesel and DAP fertiliser as Punjab gears up for a 140 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) wheat harvest, warning that any disruption in fuel availability could directly impact national food security.

While reiterating that there is no shortage and no cause for panic, the Chief Minister underscored that timely action by the Centre is essential to keep harvesting operations and grain movement running smoothly, even as Punjab stands ready with 181 LMT wheat and 139 LMT paddy to support the nation.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “During a virtual meeting with the Prime Minister on Friday evening, I apprised that Punjab is likely to produce 140 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) of wheat this year. To ensure smooth harvesting and ferrying of the crop, regular supply of petrol and diesel is needed.

A large number of tractors, trolleys, harvesters and trucks will be used during harvesting, so fuel supply must be enhanced in larger public interest. It is the need of the hour to ensure that the food security of the country is maintained by all means.”

Reassuring the public, the Chief pointed said there was no need for panic. “There is currently a stock of 12-14 days of petrol and diesel and six days of LPG in the state, which is usually the same throughout the year.

This stock is intact and supply is going on unabated. The country has import agreements with 41 nations and at the national level 60 days of petrol and diesel stock and 30 days of LPG stock have already been secured.

There is no need for hoarding or panic buying as the Chief Secretary is keeping an eagle eye on supplies. Hoarders and black marketers will not be spared at any cost.”

Citing operational data, he added, “Till Thursday, 71,000 requests for LPG refilling were received, out of which 69,000 have already been delivered. There is no possibility of any lockdown in the state and everything is functioning smoothly. A total of 1,497 checks have been conducted, during which 301 LPG cylinders were seized.”

He further stated, “The Punjab Government is committed to ensuring that both agriculture and industry do not face any disruption. A helpline number 01723321001 has been launched for LPG, petrol and diesel-related issues.”

Highlighting Punjab’s role in national food security, the Chief Minister said, “Amidst the ongoing situation, Punjab is ready to provide 41 LMT of wheat currently in its godowns, along with 140 LMT expected this year and 139 LMT of paddy for serving people across the country. The state has always helped the needy and poor.

If the country requires this 181 LMT of wheat and 139 LMT of paddy, it can be lifted anytime. Punjab will uphold its glorious tradition to support the nation in this hour of need and no stone will be left unturned for this noble cause.”

He also welcomed the Centre’s move on fuel pricing, stating, “The decision of the Government of India to reduce additional tax on petrol and diesel is a confidence-building measure.” Raising further concerns, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Union government must ensure regular supply of DAP fertilizer on priority as paddy transplantation in Punjab begins from June 1.

The waiting period of 45 days for LPG refills in rural areas should also be reduced to 25 days, at par with urban areas.”

Referring to his interaction with the Prime Minister, he said, “During the virtual meeting, I flagged all key issues pertaining to Punjab.

I urged the Prime Minister to proactively use diplomatic channels so that the country does not face any shortages. Though we claim to be a Vishav Guru, we must ensure that our actions reflect self-reliance and strategic strength in securing essential resources.”

Punjab’s Investment Momentum Continues as ₹400-Cr Trident Hotel Project Announced for Amritsar: Sanjeev Arora

Chandigarh, March 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)

In a significant boost to Punjab’s tourism and hospitality sector, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora announced that the Oberoi Group and Springedge Solutions Pvt. Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of a world-class hospitality project in Amritsar.

The MoU was signed in the presence of senior representatives of both sides, including Mr. R. Shankar, President – Corporate and Legal Affairs, Oberoi Group, and Dr. Shahbaz Singh, Dr. Avtar Singh and Dr. Amandeep Kaur, Directors of Springedge Solutions Pvt. Ltd. The signing ceremony was also attended by Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Administrative Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Punjab.

Furthermore he informed that the upcoming 150-room project will be developed under the Trident brand of the Oberoi Group and will come up on Amritsar–Tarn Taran Road, around 3 kilometres from the Golden Temple. Spread over 3 acres, the project involves an investment of around ₹400 crore and is expected to significantly strengthen Amritsar’s premium hospitality infrastructure.

The project is expected to generate employment for around 350 persons, giving a further fillip to local economic activity and job creation, he added.

Sharing more details, he said that this hospitality venture will be developed as a joint collaboration between the Oberoi Group and Springedge Solutions Pvt. Ltd., bringing together the Oberoi Group’s globally respected expertise in luxury hospitality and Springedge’s strong local institutional presence.

Notably, this will be the first hotel in Punjab under the “Trident” brand. At present, 9 hotels are operational under the Trident brand across India. The Oberoi Group currently has 32 operational hotels across the country, while 10 more are in the pipeline. In Punjab, the Group already operates The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort, New Chandigarh under the Oberoi brand.

The Amritsar project is also significant as it is being described as the first Greenfield project of this scale under the Trident brand in Punjab. Work on the project is expected to begin in July 2026, with completion targeted for March 2029.

The Government of Punjab, through Invest Punjab, played a proactive role in facilitating this collaboration. Invest Punjab has been closely engaging with both parties for over one and a half years and was instrumental in bringing them together, reflecting the state government’s commitment to enabling high-value investments.

Highlighting Punjab’s strong industrial momentum, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora informed that the state has attracted ₹59,448 crore of investments in 2025–26, the highest in its history, with a potential to generate 1,33,221 jobs.

Further, since April 1, 2022, Punjab has attracted investments worth ₹1,59,947 crore, with an employment potential of 5,57,664 jobs, showcasing the growing confidence of investors in the state.

This collaboration marks another important milestone in Punjab’s journey towards becoming a preferred destination for high-end tourism, hospitality and investment, while further reinforcing Amritsar’s position as a global cultural and spiritual hub.

Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora said Punjab is emerging as a preferred destination not only for industry, but also for premium tourism and hospitality investments. With proactive support from Invest Punjab, such landmark projects are becoming a reality and contributing to the state’s economic growth.

Kerala: Rahul Gandhi to hold roadshows in Pathanamthitta on Monday

Thiruvananthapuram, March 28, 2026
Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi is set to hit the campaign trail in Kerala with two roadshows in Pathanamthitta district on Monday, giving fresh momentum to the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) election push.

Pathanamthitta district has five Assembly constituencies, and in the 2021 Assembly polls, the Congress-led UDF drew a blank.

The upcoming roadshows by Rahul Gandhi are expected to give the alliance’s prospects a significant boost.

In the local body polls held in December, the UDF performed well, and the leadership is hopeful of improving its performance in the April 9 Assembly elections. With Rahul Gandhi’s arrival, the party expects to make a strong recovery.

The roadshows, scheduled at key centres in the district, are expected to draw significant crowds, particularly in a region where electoral contests are often closely fought and politically sensitive.

Party leaders said the visit is aimed at energising grassroots workers and consolidating support in central Kerala, with Pathanamthitta seen as a crucial battleground.

Rahul Gandhi’s visit comes after a brief disruption to his campaign schedule.

He was earlier expected to arrive in Kerala on Wednesday to participate in the UDF’s “maha rally” held in Kozhikode.

However, the Congress leader had to cancel his trip following the sudden illness of his mother, Sonia Gandhi.

In his absence, Congress president Mallikarjuna Kharge led the rally, addressing party workers and supporters while reiterating the UDF’s campaign themes against the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF).

Senior state leaders, including K.C. Venugopal, were also present, signalling the party’s attempt to maintain campaign momentum despite the last-minute change.

Party sources indicated that Rahul Gandhi’s roadshows in Pathanamthitta will focus on key political issues, including governance, development, and what the Congress describes as growing public dissatisfaction with the state government.

The district also holds symbolic importance due to its proximity to Sabarimala, a recurring theme in Kerala’s political discourse.

The Congress is hoping that Rahul Gandhi’s presence will galvanise cadres and attract undecided voters as campaigning intensifies.

With the election narrative sharpening, his return to Kerala is expected to add visibility and energy to the UDF campaign in the days ahead.(Agency)

IPL opening match in Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium; 2,000 police personnel deployed for security

Bengaluru, March 28, 2026
The famous M. Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium in Bengaluru has been turned into a police fortress as the stage is set for the IPL inaugural match between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday evening.

Authorities have taken extensive measures to ensure that no untoward incident occurs, with around 2,000 police personnel deployed in and around the stadium.

In the wake of last year’s stampede tragedy, which claimed 11 lives during the celebrations of RCB’s maiden IPL victory, the Karnataka government, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), and the RCB management have treated safety arrangements as a top priority.

The move comes as Bengaluru’s image had suffered a serious dent following the tragedy.

The Bengaluru police, alerted by the mishap that occurred during last year’s RCB victory celebrations, have made tight and elaborate security arrangements this time to ensure that no untoward incident takes place.

In Saturday’s opening match, RCB will face Sunrisers Hyderabad.

As this is the first tournament being held at Chinnaswamy Stadium after the stampede incident, around 2,000 police personnel (Bengaluru Police) have been deployed in and around the stadium. Of these, seven special squads have been formed.

Security arrangements are being overseen under the leadership of Bengaluru City Joint Commissioner of Police (West Division), Vamshi Krishna.

Senior officials have already issued necessary instructions regarding security, and police personnel will be deployed at designated locations from Saturday afternoon.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh in a video message, while addressing cricket fans, said, “The city is gearing up for high energy matches and celebrations. We welcome all cricket fans to enjoy the spirit of the game.

At the same time I urge everyone to strictly follow the guideline and instructions issued by the Bengaluru City Police. Your cooperation ensures safe and smooth experience for all. Let’s make responsible choices. Say no to drugs and say yes to life. Celebrate the game, but always remember, cheer responsibly. Together lets keep Bengaluru natural and vibrant.”

Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh held a detailed review meeting with concerned officials and KSCA office-bearers to assess security and logistical preparedness on Friday night.

She reviewed the security arrangements inside and around the stadium to ensure the safety of cricket fans.

The meeting also focused on traffic management measures, parking facilities, and essential amenities, including drinking water within the stadium premises.

Officials briefed Chief Secretary Rajneesh on anticipated passenger density in the metro, train schedules, and additional security measures implemented at metro stations.

The Chief Secretary instructed authorities to remain vigilant and ensure that even minor untoward incidents are prevented.

Rajneesh directed strict adherence to all government-imposed conditions and safety protocols for the smooth conduct of the matches.

She also instructed all departments and agencies to remain on high alert and maintain regular communication with senior officials.

The meeting was attended by KSCA management members, RCB representatives, the City Police Commissioner, GBA Commissioner, the Metro Managing Director, and other senior officials.

Meanhile, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who is also Bengaluru Development Minister, had said that arrangements have been made to provide two Indian Premier League (IPL) tickets each to MLAs for the inaugural match at the Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium in Bengaluru, following discussions with the KSCA and RCB.

Speaking to the media at the state Congress office in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said he had personally spoken to officials and requested an additional allocation of cricket match tickets.(Agency)

Four injured as bus rams into truck on Ratlam-Indore highway in Madhya Pradesh

Ratlam, March 28, 2026
In yet another road mishap on the busy Ratlam-Indore four-lane highway in Madhya Pradesh, four persons sustained grievous injuries when a private bus they were travelling in rammed into a moving truck in Dharad village on Saturday.

The incident occurred around 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Dharad four-lane crossing bridge.

According to preliminary police investigation, the bus was attempting to overtake another vehicle at high speed when it rammed into the rear of a slowly moving truck ahead. The impact was severe, causing significant damage to the front portion of the bus.

The bus was carrying approximately 35 passengers at the time of the accident. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, though four passengers received serious injuries. The injured were immediately shifted to Ratlam Medical College Hospital for emergency treatment. Their condition is stated to be stable but requires close monitoring.

Soon after the collision, the driver of the bus fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle.

Police have launched a search operation to trace and arrest the absconding driver. A case has been registered against him under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and Motor Vehicles Act for rash and negligent driving, causing hurt, and fleeing the spot.

Prima facie, the truck was proceeding at a normal slow speed while the bus was moving at considerable speed during the overtaking manoeuvre, which led to the loss of control and the crash.

Eyewitnesses told police that the bus driver did not slow down adequately while attempting to overtake at the crossing point.

The Ratlam police reached the spot promptly and initiated rescue and traffic management operations. The damaged bus and truck have been seized for further examination.

Officers are recording statements of passengers and eyewitnesses to ascertain the exact sequence of events. This accident has once again highlighted concerns over reckless overtaking and speeding on the Ratlam-Indore four-lane road, which sees heavy traffic of passenger buses and commercial vehicles daily.

Road safety experts point out that improper overtaking at bridge crossings and junctions remains a major cause of such collisions in the region.

The police investigation is underway to determine if mechanical failure, overloading, or driver fatigue played any role. Further details regarding the identities of the injured and the driver are awaited.(Agency)

Ashwin to become first Indian to play in MLC after signing with San Francisco Unicorns

San Francisco, March 28, 2026
Ace off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is all set to become the first Indian playing to feature in Major League Cricket (MLC) after signing with the San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 season.

Ashwin was a member of the Indian team winning the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. In all, he picked 765 international wickets from 287 matches across all three formats and remains the seventh-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket’s history.

“The MLC has proven over recent seasons that it can put on a show, bringing in world-class players and offering significant exposure to US domestic cricket talent, and the opportunity to be a part of it with the San Francisco Unicorns was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

“Taking on the mantle as the first Indian-capped player to compete in Major League Cricket is a major responsibility that I fully embrace. My absolute focus is to help this franchise win games and push for its first Championship, while also putting on a spectacular brand of cricket for the Bay Area fans,” said Ashwin in a statement.

Ashwin is also one of the top five wicket-takers in IPL history, having represented his home franchise, the Chennai Super Kings, as well as Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and the Delhi Capitals. He was supposed to play for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL), before a knee injury ruled him out of the competition.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome a player of Ashwin’s stature to the Unicorns. When you talk about match-winners and cricketing intelligence, his name is at the top of the list around the world.

“Bringing in the first Indian-capped player is a massive moment for our franchise and MLC as a whole, but first and foremost, he’s joining to help us win games. His experience in high-pressure situations and his skill variations will be invaluable on the pitch and in the nets, and I can’t wait to get into camp and start working with him,” said head coach Cameron White.

San Francisco Unicorns’ will begin their season on June 19 against LA Knight Riders at Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, near Dallas, Texas, with the tournament culminating at the franchise’s home ground, the Oakland Coliseum, on July 18.

The franchise previously retained captain Matt Short, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Finn Allen and Haris Rauf from its overseas players roster. The domestic retentions include Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Hassan Khan, Brody Couch, Juanoy Drysdale and Hammad Azam.(Agency)

Pakistan’s apathetic response stalls China’s mediation efforts between Islamabad and Kabul: Report

Kabul/Islamabad, March 28, 2026
China’s efforts to mediate between Islamabad and Kabul appear to have reached a dead end, raising significant doubts about its influence in both countries – especially in Pakistan, a report has revealed.

According to a report in international magazine ‘The Diplomat’, despite the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s assertion that both Afghanistan and Pakistan expressed their “willingness to resolve the issues”, the initial response to Beijing’s mediation seemed unenthusiastic, particularly from the Pakistani side.

“After unsuccessful efforts to mediate between Pakistan and Afghanistan by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, China initiated efforts to resolve the conflict in its neighbourhood, which Pakistan has declared an ‘open war’.

The fighting started in October of last year when both Pakistan and Afghanistan conducted strikes inside each other’s territory. Even though a ceasefire was brokered, with mediation by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, the attacks from both sides eventually resumed due to unresolved underlying issues,” the report detailed.

The renewed conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan triggered significant concerns for China, a key ally, economic partner, and neighbour of both Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Accordingly, the report said, Beijing actively stepped up efforts to resolve the conflict, given its substantial interests in both countries.

“After Pakistan launched its Operation Ghazab lil-Haq against the Taliban on February 27, China expressed its deep concerns and asked both sides ‘to remain calm; exercise restraint; properly resolve differences and disputes through dialogue and negotiation; end the fighting as soon as possible; and avoid more suffering’,” the report noted.

China intensified its mediation efforts in the first and second weeks of March, when its special envoy for Afghanistan, Yu Xiaoyong, visited Islamabad and Kabul in an effort to broker a ceasefire between the two countries.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, Yue Xiaoyong visited Afghanistan and Pakistan to conduct shuttle mediation regarding the recent conflicts between the two nations between March 7 and 14.

Citing media reports from Pakistan, The Diplomat said Islamabad had turned down Beijing’s efforts to end the conflict, pointing to the Taliban’s unchanged stance on the presence of militant groups in Afghanistan.

The report stressed that China’s mediation efforts between Pakistan and Afghanistan appear to be yielding no result.

“Pakistan’s apathetic response to China’s efforts points to one of two different scenarios. One, Pakistan is genuinely not interested in negotiating a deal with the Taliban until the threat of militant groups operating from Afghanistan – which the Taliban regime denies – is obliterated, with or without the Taliban’s help.

Two, Pakistan’s growing closeness with the United States under the Trump administration has given it enough leverage to defy China’s wishes,” it stated.(Agency)

ED attaches Rs 2.37cr assets in Arunachal highway compensation scam

New Delhi/Itanagar, March 28, 2026
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Arunachal Pradesh has provisionally attached properties valued at approximately Rs 2.37 crore under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in connection with the Trans-Arunachal Highway (TAH) land acquisition compensation scam, the central probe agency said on Saturday.

The Trans-Arunachal Highway (TAH) is a major 2,407-km-long, two-lane highway project traversing 16 districts in Arunachal Pradesh and primarily functioning as National Highway-13 (NH-13).

In an official statement, the ED said that its Itanagar Sub-Zonal Office has provisionally attached properties worth approximately Rs 2.37 crore under the PMLA, 2002, in connection with the alleged scam.

The attachment was carried out through a Provisional Attachment Order dated March 23, issued under Section 5(1) of the PMLA.

The attached properties include land measuring 47,350 square metres at Dolo village in Nyapin, Kurung Kumey district, held in the name of Tadar Babin, and a traditional house located at Jath village in Yachuli, Keyi Panyor district, held in the name of Likha Maj.

These assets represent proceeds of crime derived from the alleged fraudulent diversion of government compensation funds.

According to the ED, the investigation pertains to large-scale irregularities in the assessment and disbursement of land acquisition compensation under the Trans-Arunachal Highway project, specifically the Potin–Bopi stretch.

Findings of a Fact-Finding Committee (FFC) revealed that excess payments amounting to approximately Rs 44.98 crore were made over and above admissible compensation, resulting in a substantial loss to the government exchequer.

The probe has uncovered the alleged involvement of several public servants and private individuals in a well-organised conspiracy.

Among them is Kemo Lollen, then Deputy Commissioner of Ziro, who, as a joint signatory to the compensation account, allegedly played a key role in authorising and facilitating fraudulent disbursements.

Other accused include Bharat Lingu, then District Land Revenue and Settlement Officer (DLRSO), Ziro, who allegedly processed and approved manipulated compensation claims, and Toko Taje, a Junior Engineer and member of the Structural Assessment Team, who is accused of facilitating inflated and fictitious structural assessments.

Toko Tath is also accused of assisting in the fraudulent inclusion of beneficiaries, while Kabak Bhatt, another Junior Engineer, allegedly facilitated the diversion and layering of funds through intermediary entities.

Further, Likha Maj and Tadar Babin, shown as beneficiaries, are alleged to have received substantial compensation without lawful entitlement.

The ED stated that they knowingly participated in routing, withdrawing, and utilising such funds, thereby aiding in the concealment and projection of proceeds of crime as untainted property.

Earlier, the ED conducted search operations on February 6, 2026, at multiple locations across Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. These searches led to the seizure of Rs 2.40 crore in cash from Likha Maj and Rs 22 lakh from Tadar Babin, along with the freezing of bank balances amounting to approximately Rs 1.19 crore. Investigators also recovered incriminating documents and digital evidence.

Prior to this, the ED had identified and frozen funds worth approximately Rs 3.95 crore in bank accounts and deposits linked to the accused.

With the latest attachment, the total value of proceeds of crime secured in the case through attachment, seizure, and freezing has reached approximately Rs 10.13 crore.

The ED had earlier filed a Prosecution Complaint on March 12, 2024, before the Special Court (PMLA) in Yupia against Kabak Bhatt.

The court took cognisance of the complaint on March 14, 2024. Subsequent investigation has led to the identification of additional proceeds of crime and the involvement of more accused persons, resulting in the present attachment aimed at securing equivalent value for eventual confiscation under the provisions of the PMLA. Further investigation into the scam is underway.(Agency)

Man beheaded in UP’s Barabanki, accused walks home with severed head

Barabanki (Uttar Pradesh), March 28, 2026
In a gruesome incident, a 21-year-old youth was allegedly beheaded in Uttar Pradesh’s Barabanki district, police said on Saturday.

The incident took place in the Tikaitnagar police station area of Barabanki district.

According to officials, after beheading the victim, the accused attacker picked up the severed head and carried it to his house.

The victim’s head was later recovered by the police during a search at the house of the accused.

The victim has been identified as Bablu, a resident of Para Behata village in the area.

The eldest of three brothers, Bablu is survived by his wife and two children.

Officials said as per his daily routine, on Saturday too, Bablu had gone out to sell ice when he got into an argument with a local resident, whom police identified as Shankar.

According to information, the verbal spat escalated to such an extent, that Shankar got enraged and attacked Bablu with a sharp weapon, severing his head in public.

Moreover, instead of fleeing from the spot, the accused picked up Bablu’s severed head and walked to his house.

Upon receiving the information, a large police force cordoned off the village, under the instructions of Superintendent of Police (SP) Arpit Vijayvargiya.

What even left the police horrified was that when they reached the accused’s house, he was cooking food, with the severed head of the victim kept beside.

The accused was then apprehended by the police and the victim’s head and the murder weapon was recovered from his possession.

SP Vijayvargiya said that prima facie the case appears to be one of insanity and a personal dispute, but a thorough questioning is underway to uncover the real motive behind the crime.

Earlier, a 21-year-old youth had allegedly beheaded two elderly neighbours and injured two others in Lohara village in Madhya Pradesh’s Singrauli district, suspecting them of casting some magic spell that caused his wife’s recent miscarriage.(Agency)

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