CAF Jawan Killed in Late-Night Barracks Shooting
A tragic incident unfolded late on Sunday night at the Ghaghra battalion camp of the Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) in Khairagarh district. A CAF jawan, Sonveer Jat, was shot dead allegedly by his colleague, Arvind Gautam, using his service INSAS rifle. The shooting occurred around midnight when most personnel in the camp were asleep.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Fatal Shot
According to preliminary police findings, the violent episode originated from a sudden argument between the two jawans after dinner. The men had retired to their barracks when the dispute erupted. During the heated exchange, it is believed that Sonveer Jat reportedly slapped Arvind Gautam. Provoked by this act, Arvind Gautam, in a fit of rage, allegedly picked up his service rifle and fired at Sonveer.
The bullet struck Sonveer, first passing through his hand before lodging in his cheek. The loud gunshot around midnight startled other personnel who rushed to the barracks. They discovered Sonveer lying in a pool of blood on his bed. He was immediately provided medical attention and rushed to the Khairagarh civil hospital in the early hours of Monday. Unfortunately, doctors at the hospital declared him dead on arrival.
Investigation Underway, Motive Unclear
The accused jawan, Arvind Gautam, has been arrested and is currently being questioned at the Gattapar police station. The service rifle used in the incident has been seized by the authorities. An FIR has been registered, and a detailed investigation is in progress.
While initial reports hinted at a possible long-standing dispute between the two, their colleagues at the camp provided a contrasting picture to the police. Fellow jawans described the two as generally friendly, often seen performing duties together. The exact trigger for the argument and its rapid escalation to a fatal shooting remains unclear, as stated by a senior investigating officer.
The officer further mentioned that the angle of a slap preceding the shooting emerged during the initial inquiry. Police are meticulously recording statements from all fellow jawans present in the camp. Investigators have stated that the precise motive will only be ascertained after detailed questioning, forensic examination of the weapon and scene, and the post-mortem report.
Aftermath and Response
In the wake of this shocking incident, security has been strengthened in and around the Ghaghra battalion camp and its surrounding areas. The CAF authorities and the district police have officially informed the family of the deceased jawan, Sonveer Jat, who was a native of Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the force, highlighting the grave consequences of sudden altercations within disciplined units. The investigation continues to piece together the final moments that led to this avoidable loss of life.
