Chandrapur Police Reopen 2023 Death Case as Premeditated Murder
In a dramatic turn of events, investigators in Chandrapur have reopened a nearly three-year-old case involving the sudden death of a head constable, now alleging it was a premeditated murder rather than an accident. This revelation has led to the arrest of four individuals, including the victim's own daughter—who is currently a police trainee—and her estranged partner, who reportedly blew the whistle on the plot.
From Accident to Murder: The Case's Decisive Turn
The case centers on Jayant Ballawar, a head constable who collapsed while on duty near the collectorate administrative building on March 25, 2023. He was later declared dead at the Government Medical College and Hospital in Chandrapur. Initially, no foul play was suspected, and his death was treated as an accident, leaving many questions unanswered.
However, the investigation took a decisive turn after fresh evidence was submitted by Ashish Shedmade, the estranged partner of Jayant's daughter, Arya. This prompted the Ramnagar police to re-examine the circumstances thoroughly, leading to a shocking conclusion: Jayant's death was not accidental but a carefully planned murder.
The Alleged Conspiracy and Arrests
Following the reopening of the case, police arrested four individuals: Arya Ballawar, Ashish Shedmade (30), Chaitanya alias Monty Gedam (22), and a minor from Bhadrawati. Investigators allege that Arya and Ashish were in a relationship since 2022, which Jayant strongly opposed, leading to frequent disputes at home.
Police claim that Arya viewed her father as an obstacle to her marriage and conspired with Ashish and others to eliminate him. As part of the plan, poison was procured through the minor and delivered to Arya via Gedam for ₹5,000. On the day of the incident, Jayant consumed a milkshake laced with poison just before duty hours, complained of dizziness at work, and slumped to the ground.
Evidence and Investigation Details
After the case was reopened, a review of the autopsy and chemical analysis confirmed poisoning, contradicting the initial accident ruling. Statements recorded during the investigation further pointed to a planned act, solidifying the murder allegations.
Sources indicate that neither Arya nor Ashish was employed in the police force at the time of the incident. Ashish later joined the force but was dismissed a few months ago due to misconduct. Arya secured a police position on compassionate grounds after her father's death and is currently undergoing training. The crime reportedly came to light after a fallout between Arya and Ashish, with Ashish approaching the police to reveal the plot.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Probe
A case has been registered on the complaint of PSI Krishna Darade, and the investigation is being led by PSI Ashwini Wakade under the supervision of police inspector Asif Raja Sheikh. The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in a case that had long been considered closed, highlighting the importance of persistent investigative efforts.
This development underscores the complexities of familial disputes and the lengths to which individuals might go, raising serious questions about trust and justice within the community. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover all details surrounding this tragic event.
