A violent clash between two groups over playing DJ music during New Year celebrations turned fatal in Hazaribag, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old man and injuries to several others. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and prompted a significant police response.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Tragedy
The incident occurred on Thursday night at Indrapuri Chowk, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Lohsinghna police station. According to preliminary information, the conflict involved two groups of taxi drivers who had a pre-existing animosity.
Around 10 pm, a group of men was dancing to DJ music near the chowk. Another group, allegedly in an inebriated state, arrived at the spot and demanded that songs of their choice be played. This demand sparked an argument that quickly escalated into a physical brawl.
Brutal Attack and Fatal Outcome
During the ensuing melee, Suraj Kumar Rana, a resident of Mandai Khurd village and a father of two children, was dragged to the nearby Red Cross building and severely beaten. The assailants then took him to Lal Kothi Chowk, where he was attacked with a sword.
Alerted by local residents, a police team rushed to the scene. They immediately transported the critically injured Suraj to Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital. Unfortunately, the doctors there declared him dead upon arrival. The attackers managed to flee before the police could apprehend them.
Police Investigation and Community Outrage
Nishant Kerketta, the officer-in-charge of Lohsinghna police station, confirmed on Friday that an FIR has been registered in the case. While not divulging specific details of the FIR, Kerketta stated, "Several men have been detained for questioning, and an investigation is underway to determine the sequence of events. Raids are underway to arrest a few more individuals."
In addition to Suraj's death, two other men, identified as Kuldeep Soni and Chhotu Gope, sustained injuries in the clash. They were admitted to a hospital in Ranchi for treatment.
The postmortem examination of Suraj Kumar Rana's body was conducted on Friday. The tragic event provoked strong reactions from the victim's family and the local community.
On Friday, family members of the deceased, accompanied by a large number of locals, blocked a road in protest. They demanded the immediate arrest of all the assailants. The blockade was eventually cleared by evening, but additional police forces were deployed in the area to prevent any further unrest and maintain law and order.
The investigation into the violent New Year's eve clash continues as authorities work to piece together the full narrative and bring all those responsible to justice.
