A shocking incident of violence has unfolded at a gurdwara in Dhule city, leaving its elderly head priest critically injured. Dheerajsingh Khalsa, 61, was brutally attacked with a sword by a staff member he had recently employed out of compassion.
Attack Inside the Sacred Premises
The assault occurred on the morning of Tuesday, December 1, within the gurdwara itself. The accused, identified as Umesh Malode, aged 24, suddenly picked up a sword and launched a vicious attack on Khalsa. The attack resulted in deep head injuries for the gurdwara head. Two other individuals were also injured in the sudden onslaught before bystanders managed to overpower the assailant.
From Benefactor to Victim: A Tragic Turn
The background of the incident adds a layer of profound tragedy. According to the police and a complaint filed by Ranvirsingh Khalsa, Umesh Malode had begun visiting the gurdwara for food about two months prior. Taking pity on his situation, Dheerajsingh Khalsa enquired about his problems. When Malode stated he had no arrangements for food or shelter, the kind-hearted Khalsa offered him a job. Malode was appointed as a sevak (servitor) with a monthly salary of Rs 7,000.
Inspector Deepak Patil confirmed that the Dhule city police have registered a case under serious charges. These include Section 109 (attempt to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and relevant sections of the Indian Arms Act. The investigation, initially handled by local police, has now been taken over by Deputy SP Rajkumar Upase of Dhule city.
Deteriorating Health and Ongoing Probe
Following the attack, Dheerajsingh Khalsa was initially receiving treatment at a private hospital in Dhule. However, as his condition worsened, the decision was made to shift him to a advanced medical facility. On Tuesday, he was moved to the renowned Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai for critical care.
Deputy SP Upase provided updates on both individuals involved. While Khalsa fights for his life in Mumbai, the accused attacker, Umesh Malode, is also hospitalised. This is because he was thrashed by bystanders immediately after being caught at the scene. The officer stated that the precise motive behind the sudden and violent attack on his benefactor remains unclear and is expected to be revealed during Malode's custodial interrogation.
The community in Dhule has been left in a state of shock and anguish by this act of betrayal and violence within a place of worship, highlighting an urgent need for a thorough investigation.
