Mahant Murder in Haridwar: Woman and Two Relatives Arrested for Axe Killing
In a shocking crime that has rattled the spiritual community, three persons, including a 30-year-old woman, have been arrested for allegedly axing to death a mahant of a local ashram in Takabhari village under Bhagwanpur police jurisdiction in Haridwar district. The victim, identified as Mahant Brijesh Das, was the head of Ravidas Ashram and had been missing since February 5.
Body Recovered from Krishna River in Baghpat
Senior Superintendent of Police Navneet Singh Bhullar confirmed that the body of Mahant Brijesh Das was recovered from the Krishna river in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district. The axe used in the brutal murder, a partially burnt mobile phone, and other incriminating evidence have also been seized by the police. This recovery has been crucial in piecing together the sequence of events leading to the mahant's untimely death.
Relationship and Blackmail Alleged as Motive
According to police investigations, Mahant Brijesh Das was allegedly in a relationship with the accused woman, a resident of Gangnauli village in Baghpat district, Uttar Pradesh. The woman, along with her husband and brother-in-law, conspired to eliminate the ascetic after she claimed he had been blackmailing her over their relationship. Police stated that the woman revealed during interrogation that Das used to visit her relatives' house, where she first came into contact with him.
Missing Person Complaint Leads to Breakthrough
The case came to light when Shyam Singh, a resident of Takabhari village, approached the police on February 10 and lodged a missing person complaint, stating that Das had been untraceable for five days. During the subsequent investigation, police examined call records and discovered that a woman from Gangnauli had contacted the mahant shortly before his disappearance.
Arrests and Confessions
A police team swiftly reached Gangnauli and detained the woman, her husband, and her brother-in-law for questioning. During sustained interrogation, the trio allegedly confessed to the crime, providing detailed accounts of their involvement. The woman reportedly called Das to her residence in Baghpat district on February 5, where the murder was carried out.
Gruesome Details of the Crime
Police revealed that after the murder, the accused transported the body on a motorcycle at night and dumped it into the Krishna river along with the vehicle. In an attempt to destroy evidence, the mahant's mobile phone and blood-stained clothes were set ablaze and hidden in a fodder storage room. This meticulous yet brutal disposal method highlights the premeditated nature of the crime.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
The arrest of the three accused has brought some closure to the case, but police are continuing their investigation to ensure all aspects are thoroughly examined. The murder has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising concerns about safety and the sanctity of religious institutions. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
