A horrific double tragedy unfolded in Barabanki district over the weekend, stemming from a decades-old property dispute. The violence claimed two lives and left a village in shock.
Violence Erupts Over Disputed Land
The incident occurred in Ramnagar village on Saturday evening. According to police reports, the conflict dates back 25 years when a piece of land was allocated for residential purposes to two villagers. While houses were constructed on part of the land, a portion remained vacant, becoming a constant source of tension between the two families.
Saturday's Fatal Confrontation
On Saturday, members of one family allegedly began ploughing the disputed land. The rival family strongly opposed this action. What started as an argument quickly escalated into physical violence.
Chetram, 45, rushed to the spot upon hearing the commotion. His maternal cousins — identified as Vinod, Gajodhar, Vishal and Narendra — allegedly attacked him with sticks. The assault happened in full view of Chetram's elderly father, 88-year-old Ramnath.
Medical Emergency and Tragic Outcome
Chetram suffered serious injuries in the attack. Villagers initially took him to the district hospital, where doctors, recognizing the severity of his condition, referred him to King George's Medical University in Lucknow.
Meanwhile, Ramnath, who had been ailing for some time, experienced severe shock after witnessing his son's brutal assault. The elderly man passed away on Saturday night itself.
Chetram fought for his life at KGMU but ultimately succumbed to his injuries on Sunday morning. The medical staff could not save him despite their best efforts.
Police Response and Investigation
Barabanki police have registered a murder case against four accused individuals. Authorities have already arrested three of the named suspects. The search continues for the remaining accused.
To prevent further unrest in the village, police have deployed additional forces in Ramnagar. The situation remains tense but under control as investigators piece together the sequence of events.
Long-Standing Dispute Turns Deadly
Local residents reveal that the land dispute has simmered for a quarter century. The vacant portion of the allocated land became a flashpoint for repeated clashes between the two families over the years.
Saturday's violence represents the most severe escalation in this prolonged conflict. What began as a property disagreement has now resulted in unimaginable loss for both families involved.
The community remains shaken by the events. Neighbors describe both the deceased as respected members of the village who became victims of a dispute that spiraled out of control.
